Posted by K. D. December 28, 2024
Demonstration of strength and discipline for theRowing Bayonnais who, this Saturday, dominated Castres with a clear victory (33-12) during the 13th day of the Top 14, thus temporarily climbing onto the championship podium.
An iron discipline
It was definitely not a matter of spectacle this weekend at Jean-Dauger, but rather a question of rigor and tactical precision. The Basque team, already well positioned in the ranking of the most disciplined teams before this meeting, surpassed itself by conceding only six penalties throughout the duration of the match.
A radical change from the sequence of 23 penalties against Vannes the previous week.
Mistakes that cost Castres dearly
Bayonne's rigor contrasted with the errors of the Castres who saw six of their touches escape them, offering their opponents precious opportunities which resulted in 16 points at the foot.
The opponent's performance and this indiscipline were the ingredients of a bitter recipe for Castres Olympique, thus moving the team away from the top 6 before facing Pau for the return phase.
A precarious but deserved podium
This victory temporarily positions Bayonne in third place in the premier French rugby league, a sign that the team has tactical resources on which it can rely.
Although the main praise is given to their discipline on the field, the Basques also showed that they know how to take advantage of opposing weaknesses opportunistically and that they have the shoulders to remain among the elite.
A victory before the holidays
The press conference which preceded the match underlined L'Aviron's determination to end the year on a positive note. During this festive period, Bayonne certainly gave its supporters an early gift, while keeping an eye on the future and the challenges ahead.
Attacking the rest of the Top 14
Now that the calendar is becoming clearer for the 14th day of the Top 14, the Bayonne team will have to confirm its place on the podium in an expected clash against Montpellier.
While Castres, facing Pau, will have to question its strategy to hope to find its feet in the rankings. For Rowing Bayonnais, it is a moment of legitimate pride but also proof that discipline pays off.
