Perpignan: an urgent need for results
The Catalans are going through a complicated period. Beaten last week by Stade Français (24-7), they have a third consecutive defeat. 13th in the standings with only 19 points, Perpignan has not scored a point in the championship since November 2.
For the USAP, each meeting becomes crucial. Patrick Arlettaz's men have no room for error if they want to avoid finding themselves permanently in a barrier position. This home duel, against a reshuffled La Rochelle team, could be the ideal opportunity to restart the machine.
La Rochelle: a team in search of consistency
As for the Maritimes, the season oscillates between hopes and frustrations. Currently 6th with 32 points, La Rochelle is on track to qualify for the final phase. However, it is almost ten points behind the leading Toulouse-Bordeaux duo.
Despite a sluggish victory against Clermont last week (20-15), the Rochelais are struggling to convince in the championship. Their surprise defeat against Vannes in November illustrates these difficulties. With several executives rested, Ronan O'Gara will give playing time to some replacements to show themselves.
A balanced meeting between Perpignan and La Rochelle
Both teams have a lot to play for in this duel. Perpignan, galvanized by the support of Aimé-Giral, must absolutely collect points. Opposite, La Rochelle will try to correct its lack of efficiency away from home. This match promises to be undecided, but every detail could change the match.
To summarizePerpignan plays big in this clash against La Rochelle. Between the urgency of maintaining for the USAP and the search for consistency of the Rochelais, this confrontation promises to be intense and contested.
