Seven years was more than enough. The Stade Français, with crampons since the beginning of the season, tightened the screw this Sunday evening on the Jean-Bouin lawn where he spent seven years subjecting himself to the law of Racing 92. Under the eyes of Gil Avérous, the Minister of Sport, of Youth and Community Life, undertook a tour across France to meet football, rugby and basketball fans, and Florian Grill, the president of the French Federation, the Parisian club offered a clear revenge on his rival (40-24).
Also a nice room in front. Fourteen thousand spectators filled the stands, a rather interesting result on a Sunday evening, the day before school. Enough to galvanize a Parisian team, thirteenth in the Top 14 before this tenth matchday, forced to react to avoid spending the rest of the championship competing for the red lantern with promoted Vannes. The beginning has taken place. Under the guidance of winger Lester Etien, author of the first two tries that launched his team (6th, 33rd), Laurent Labit’s players showed a dynamism and character that we have not often seen from them this season .
A game folded at half-time
The match is decided in one minute, shortly before returning to the locker room. At a time when Racing, deprived of its French XV internationals Nolann Le Garrec, Gaël Fickou and Fiji’s Josua Tuisova, as well as its English fly-half Owen Farrell, who had undergone groin surgery, began to find space. The Parisians, who regretted the absence of full-back Léo Barré, who started during the Blues’ victory against Argentina on Friday (37-23), pressed the accelerator. Two great movements, executed at full speed and concluded by three quarters Joe Marchant (39th) and Jérémy Ward (40th, 26-3) stunned Stuart Lancaster’s players.
Clumsy, imprecise and far too static, Ciel et Blanc has shown worrying shortcomings at this stage of the season. The Ile-de-France residents also missed numerous tackles, suffering Parisian counterattacks. The defeat almost turned into humiliation. At the height of that of 24 December 2022 when he was overwhelmed (10-48) in his room at the Paris La Défense Arena or that of 24 April 2010 to Jean-Bouin (41-17), the two biggest blows suffered since the return of club Hauts-de-Seine to the elite? Not really because the Parisians couldn’t keep up the pace and conceded three tries in the final quarter of an hour.
“We missed everything tonight”, regrets Antoine Gibert, the first in the race. Lots of wrong choices, defensive errors… This last quarter of an hour cannot reassure us, what’s more they gave up. We can’t settle for this in a derby. »
However, Stade Français retains its offensive bonus and approaches the trip to Bayonne next Sunday with a little more serenity. Here the Parisian club has risen to 10th place, eight points behind Vannes and four from Pau, in a play-off position for the descent into Pro D 2. Racing, for its part, sails in 8th place, only three units above. The welcome of league leaders Stade Toulouse next Saturday in Créteil risks making the sky and the white troops sweat.
The points
Stade Français - Racing, 40-24
French stadium: 6 attempts Etien (6th, 33rd), Marchant (39th), Ward (40th), Jonas (58th), Dakuwaqa (60th), 5 conversions by Carbonel (33rd, 39th, 40th, 58 °, 60°).
Run 92: 3 tries Kaitu’u (65th, 70th), Woki (75th), 3 conversions D. Lancaster, 1 penalty D. Lancaster (18th).
Red card. Stade Français: Van der Mescht (73rd).
How can Racing 92 address their performance issues and improve despite key player injuries?
Time.news Editor: Thank you for joining us today. We’re excited to have you here to discuss the remarkable recent match between Stade Français and Racing 92. Let’s dive in! The final score read 40-24 in favor of Stade Français. What do you think this match signifies for both teams moving forward?
Expert: Thank you for having me! This match is significant on multiple levels. For Stade Français, this was not just a victory, but a statement of intent. After being at the bottom of the Top 14, they needed this win to boost their confidence and morale. It shows they have the potential to compete at a higher level, especially under pressure. For Racing 92, however, this loss highlights some serious issues in their performance—especially given that they were missing key players due to injuries.
Time.news Editor: Exactly, and speaking of injuries, Racing 92 was without several key players, including French internationals. How did these absences affect their strategy and performance during the game?
Expert: The absence of pivotal players like Nolann Le Garrec and Gaël Fickou certainly impacted Racing’s structure on the field. These players not only contribute defensively but also create offensive opportunities. Racing looked disorganized and static throughout the match, struggling to maintain pace with Stade Français. Their inability to adapt in such a high-stakes game may reflect deeper issues within the team’s strategy and readiness.
Time.news Editor: It’s interesting you mention strategy. The match changed dramatically just before halftime, with Stade Français scoring two tries in quick succession. What did you see in those moments that flipped the game?
Expert: That was indeed a defining moment in the match. Stade Français showcased incredible dynamism and coordination, especially from players like Lester Etien, who kicked off the scoring frenzy. Those quick tries not only put Racing on the back foot but also energized the home crowd and further galvanized the Parisian players. The mental aspect of rugby cannot be overstated; starting strong puts immense psychological pressure on the opposing side.
Time.news Editor: Speaking of crowd energy, the presence of 14,000 spectators was impressive for a Sunday evening match. What role do you think the home crowd played in Stade Français’ performance?
Expert: The crowd’s energy undoubtedly played a vital role. Home advantage can be significant in any sport, and here, it bolstered Stade Français’ performance. The fans’ enthusiasm can motivate players to elevate their game, and in this instance, it seemed to ignite a sense of urgency and pride within the team. As the match progressed, their cheers likely fueled the players’ determination to perform and secure a commanding win.
Time.news Editor: And let’s not overlook the contrasting vibes after this match. With Stade Français climbing up from thirteenth place, what do you think their prospects look like for the rest of the season?
Expert: If they can maintain this momentum, I believe they could turn their season around. They have shown that they can compete at a high level when motivated, as evidenced by this match. Consistency will be key for Stade Français to avoid being drawn back down the table. However, they must also focus on their tactical execution and ensure that they don’t become complacent after a big win.
Time.news Editor: Lastly, what does this match suggest about the current state of the Top 14 overall? Are there trends we should be watching in the coming weeks?
Expert: Absolutely, the Top 14 is proving to be highly competitive this season. This match demonstrates that even when teams have struggled, they can produce surprising results—like Stade Français did against a formidable opponent like Racing 92. I would keep an eye on injury management, the strategic adaptations of each team, and how upcoming fixtures may further twist the standings as teams vie for playoff positions.
Time.news Editor: Thank you so much for your insights today! It’s always a pleasure to have you share your expertise with us. We look forward to seeing how the Top 14 unfolds in the coming matches.
Expert: Thank you! It’s been a pleasure discussing this thrilling match. Let’s hope the excitement continues!