The clash between Clermontois and Bordelais gave way to two similar strategies: conquering penalties rather than choosing to take penalties. A desire that is a pleasure to see…
Blue sky, yellow sun, no clouds on the horizon. The decor of this Clermont – Bordeaux-Bègles perfectly symbolized the Indian summer in which the Auvergnats have been immersed for a week. In this happy context, both teams had a fierce desire to play hard, score the opponent and put on a show. A state of mind translated into actions. Since apart from the two penalties attempted and succeeded by Carbery – with disconcerting ease – Jaunards and Girondins constantly looked for penalties, including when an attempt to pass three points was presented with cordiality for the gunners of the two teams. A risky desire but so appreciable for the supporters of the Yellow Army as well as for the simple amateurs staying warm in front of their screens.
At the end of the first period, Yannick Bru's men could have kicked a thousand times to find a touch from five meters away, if the opportunity had arisen. At 17-6 at this point in the game, the Bordelais could have returned to the locker room eight points behind, scoring three points. Dominant at the front, the finalists of the last season tried everything to dive into the promised land. An effort in vain since the Jaunards turned a final Gironde scrum to their advantage. Shortly after the break, the Jaunards also used the same strategy while the UBB had returned to 17-13. Benjamin Urdapilleta preferred to send his soldiers into touch rather than secure three points. A profitable choice which allowed the Auvergnats to score thanks to Léon Darricarrère. Success or not, the choice of the penaltouche symbolizes a panache that will be eternally praised…
