“We didn't know how to manage the end of the match.”

Frustrated but not defeated. This is the state of mind of Clement Poitrenaud after the close meeting between Toulouse and Bayonne.

As part of the Top 14, the Toulouse coach expressed his analysis during a press conferencehighlighting the impact of duplicates on the performance of his team.

A fight largely influenced by duplicates

“We were unable to manage the end of the match, letting Bayonne regain control”

Clement Poitrenaud

A bitter confession from the coach who saw his team dominate without realizing anything during a good part of the match.

The key to the problem ? Lack of efficiency near the opposing goal line which could turn the match in their favor.

Despite the defeat, Poitrenaud remains confidentaffirming that the fighting spirit and will were there among his players.

The pride of a strong team

A touch of satisfaction, however, shines through in his words:

“We are proud of the players’ commitment.”

Clement Poitrenaud

A justified pride, because facing a Bayonne team known for its ability to “ hit hard“Toulouse was able to maintain a solid defense.

Stade Toulousain thus finished the first block at the top of the ranking, confirming its solidity and its ability to pick up points even in the face of adversity.

The recurring challenge of the Bayonnais still to come

This match against Bayonne raises a persistent problem for Toulouse: the confrontation during doubles, periods when the team is not complete due to national selections. Poitrenaud points out this difficulty:

“Since 2020, we have not played the Bayonnais to full capacity. It’s going to start to show a little.”

Clement Poitrenaud

He therefore plans to strengthen his strategy for the next matches, in particular the return match, during the February doubles.

Hardened players and a strong message

This match was also an opportunity for Poitrenaud to salute the state of mind of his team and to highlight the importance of this quality for the confrontations to come.

Despite the result, the team seems to be learning the necessary lessons and the coach is already preparing to send a strong message in the next clash with Bayonne.

Injuries to deplore

However, this meeting left physical scars with several injured players, notably Jack Willis, Joshua Brennan et Paul Graouwho suffered a concussion.

The physical impact of the match is a reminder of the health issues in this sport where the intensity of contact is inevitable.

UA path strewn with pitfalls, but determination intact

Ultimately, this match reveals how duplicates can be a major obstacle for Top 14 clubs.

Toulouse must now think of solutions to overcome this recurring pitfall, while maintaining the fighting spirit that characterizes its team.

With particular attention paid to the physical condition of its players, Poitrenaud and his staff are now looking towards the futureready to adjust their strategy to continue to challenge for the lead in the championship.