“For a return match, it’s very satisfying”

Named Man of the Match, Louis Bielle-Biarrey scored two tries in the Blues’ victory against Japan (52-12), continuing to improve his statistics with the French XV thanks to his fast play.

Ill and a last-minute withdrawal, Damian Penaud undoubtedly regretted his absence at the Stade de France, where he could have taken advantage of Japanese defensive generosity to equal Serge Blanco as the Blues’ top try scorer. He remains two lengths behind (36 in 53 selections against 38 for Blanco), but should have the opportunity to improve his score during the next matches in November.

For his part, Louis Bielle-Biarrey shone. With five tries in six matches this season in the Top 14, he confirmed his key role in the prolific UBB attack.

His dazzling accelerations undermined the Japanese defense, although his famous red helmets are banned in the league for regulatory reasons.

“We are very happy with the score. There are a lot of little things to review, we have a new system in attack and defense. We still have a week to prepare for this. For a restart match, it’s very satisfying,” he confided after the match, without being fully satisfied.

A validated trial subject to controversy

Faced with a poorly placed Japanese defense, Louis Bielle-Biarrey showed off his talent. Exploiting his speed, he scored a try down the line after several passes. This test had to be validated by video as it was so controversial.

Served on the wing, Louis Bielle-Biarrey hit a kick to follow, taking advantage of a hand fault from Tuitama to flatten with one hand. After video verification, the test was validated despite a possible forward kick with the ball bouncing off his torso. For many, the test should not have been validated.

The winger was then decisive in the attempts of Alexandre Roumat, who followed well in the race, and Yoram Moefana with whom he combined effectively. LBB also almost prevented a Japanese try thanks to a dazzling comeback against Tevita Tatafu.

At 21 years old, with already 12 selections and 8 tries, Bielle-Biarrey has become an essential starter, having won his place during the preparation for the 2023 World Cup. He had also distinguished himself from the Six Nations Tournament, notably with a crucial test in Scotland.

“I feel that last season we had a lot of difficulty between extra-sporting matters and the disappointment of the World Cup,” he expressed. “I feel that now everyone is really focused on this 2027 World Cup. We are trying to put everything in place for the Six Nations, for this tour and for the 2027 World Cup which is the ultimate objective. »