Stadium duel this Saturday at Marcel-Deflandre during the 9th day of the Top 14. Stade Rochelais, 4th in the championship hosts Stade Français (12th).
Despite their twelfth place, the Parisians were able to smile again thanks to their big victory last weekend against Clermont (36-6). “It’s clear that it gave us a breath of fresh air”recognizes third row Sekou Macalou about the best game of the Pink Soldiers this season.
La Rochelle without Alldritt but with Jegou
However, there is no question of releasing the pressure, with Perpignan on their heels, one point behind in the standings. “We are not where we want to be”recalls the forwards coach, Julien Tastet, who is waiting “a big meeting at Marcel-Deflandre”.
The Rochelais, fourth in the standings, are emerging from disillusionment in Montpellier, beaten 16-0 in pouring rain. Ronan O'Gara will have to cope without his captain Greg Alldritt who remains with the Blues, but will be able to count on fly-half Antoine Hastoy and center Jonathan Danty, both released.
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La Rochelle will also field Oscar Jegou for the first time this season, still being prosecuted for aggravated rape in Argentina since the Blues' summer tour.
