What better way to start the year than getting together with neighbors? Lalinde will host Issigeac on Sunday January 12, after winning the first leg (19-29).
At the time, the promoted Issigeacois was in training. The turning point only came on the 3rd day, in Ribérac (24-31). Since then, the orange and black have signed a record of five victories for five defeats. “Compared to the first leg, the team has evolved rather well,” explains Laurent Fauverte, back lines coach of a UAI which ended 2024 with two losses in Montignac and Sainte-Foy-la-Grande. Moving to the leader will not be an easy task but the Issigeacois will do it without pressure. “It’s a good thing to leave with a trip. We won’t have much to lose in this meeting, the most important thing for us will be the following Sunday with the reception at Ribérac, adds Fauverte. We should be able to provide the same service as during our last trip. The goal for us will be to show that in the first leg, it wasn’t us. »
Lalinde aims for the head
For their part, the Lindois will want to continue their very good run since they have only suffered two defeats since the start of the season. The battle therefore promises to be tough with Confluent RC and Sainte-Foy, the two pursuers, for first place, synonymous with promotion to Federal 1 and, of course, the regional quarter-final. The three teams are four points at the top of the group.
“We will do everything to stay at the top of the rankings but I am not someone who likes to do calculations. There, we must stay focused on Issigeac,” warns Maati Lakouit. The Lindois coach remains suspicious of this neighbor he knows. “We know that in the first leg, this team was not in place. They have proven their worth ever since. We see it in their ranking today. » In any case, the yellow and black staff know that they have no room for error on their pitch at La Maroutine. A defeat would be unwelcome. “We know the parameters to take into account, mainly the playing conditions and our opponent. We worked accordingly. Physically, we are not worried because our squad is ready,” concludes Lakouit.
