Pro D2: “The Agen – Montauban matches have always been very balanced”, insists Philippe Mothe, formerly of SUA and USM

Does the Agen – Montauban poster have a particular flavor?

These are two very close cities. Even if the Garonne does not join them, they are two medium-sized cities, stuck between the metropolises of Toulouse and Bordeaux and their flagship Top 14 clubs. There is therefore this rivalry between SUA and USM who battle at the same level. Even if the connotation of derbies is less valued today.

For what ?

It’s no longer really a war of bells, the 47 against the 82. Before, there were almost only local players. There was regional enthusiasm. Today, morals have changed. Players – who come from abroad or only stay two or three years at the club – identify less with the local heritage. I spoke about it with Sébastien Calvet who is trying to change this at the SUA.

Also read:
Pro D2: Agen – Montauban, a derby is not just a story of boundaries

How is the SUA perceived in Montauban?

It remains a gala poster. When I coached USM, when we hosted Agen, Sapiac was always sold out. Montauban has always suffered between Agen and Toulouse. I wouldn’t go so far as to say that there was a complex, but rather a thirst for recognition, the life to fight back and defeat the club above you. Montauban has always wanted to assert itself on this point.

With the latest results, this derby promises to be spicy!

The matches between Agenais and Montalbanais have always been balanced. Last year, if the USM suffered, it won in Armandie.

How do you analyze the start of the season for Sporting, which is doing better in terms of play?

It’s a certainty, we all experience it like that. Agen has more assertive intentions, a real offensive desire. Even if this is not measured in results and rankings. But they took a lot of away bonuses. There’s very little missing, it’s not far off. Now, from an accounting perspective, the team must win the derby to move up the standings.