2024-11-03 22:32:00
Bayonne got the better of Stade Toulousain in the Top 14 this Sunday (12-8), signing a fourth victory in a row. The Rouge et Noir nonetheless remain leaders of the championship thanks to the defensive bonus gleaned on Jean-Dauger’s pitch.
In a packed Jean-Dauger stadium, Aviron Bayonnais thwarted the plans of Stade Toulousain (12-8) in bringing down the curtain on the 9th day of Top 14. Despite the numerous absences in the Haut-Garonnais ranks (seven players retained in Marcoussis by Fabien Galthié in the French team), the leader of the championship traveled to the Basque Country with a competitive team. Playing on par with the Ciel et Blanc in a constant battle in all sectors of the game, Ugo Mola’s men however failed to score a single point before the hour mark.
The Fijian Setareki Bituniyata ended up finding his way to the goal on a serve from Paul Graou to pick up the score (7-5, 62nd). It was the Scotsman Blair Kinghorn, at the end of the match, who gave the Toulouse team the advantage on a penalty (7-8, 74th). With its back to the wall, Rowing then rolled up its sleeves to put pressure on the money-time. And as often, deliverance came from the providential man: Sireli Maqala. The one who had flattened the only try of the first act (7-0, 16th), has therefore done it again, and in a very beautiful way at that. Like his acrobatic try against La Rochelle at Anoeta, the Fijian showed off his fiery legs before concluding his personal feat with a nice dive near the right sideline (12-8, 78th).
Bayonne power 4, Toulouse alone in the lead
Thanks to this double from Sireli Maqala, author of eight tries already, Aviron Bayonnais (26 points) signed a fourth victory in a row, synonymous with 4th place in the Top 14, one point behind La Rochelle. After the international break, the Basques will return to action during the 10th day against Mayol in Toulon. Stade Toulousain (30 points) for its part gleaned a defensive bonus point allowing it to occupy the top of the ranking alone ahead of Bordeaux-Bègles (29 points). In three weeks, the French champions will return to competition at home against Perpignan.
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**Interview with Rugby Analyst Julien Marchand on Aviron Bayonnais vs. Stade Toulousain Match**
**Interviewer:** Thank you for joining us, Julien. The match between Aviron Bayonnais and Stade Toulousain was quite the spectacle. What stood out to you the most from the game?
**Julien Marchand:** Thank you for having me! One of the biggest takeaways from the match was Bayonne’s defensive intensity. They managed to keep Stade Toulousain, who are known for their offensive prowess, at bay. It was impressive how Bayonne’s forwards dominated the breakdowns and limited Toulousain’s chances.
**Interviewer:** Indeed, Bayonne has been on a roll lately, having secured their fourth consecutive victory. What do you think has been the key to their recent success?
**Julien Marchand:** Consistency and resilience. This is a team that has found a solid structure both in attack and defense. Their ability to capitalize on set-pieces and in open play has given them the edge in crucial moments. They’ve also built a momentum that’s hard to break, which can be vital during this stage of the season.
**Interviewer:** With Stade Toulousain still leading the championship despite the loss, what do you think this means for them going forward?
**Julien Marchand:** It’s a mixed bag for them. While they remain at the top of the table, this match highlights the need for them to adapt quickly, especially with key players absent. They will need to reassess their strategies and, more importantly, utilize their bench effectively to cope with these injuries as the season progresses.
**Interviewer:** Lastly, looking ahead, how do you see the upcoming matches shaping up for both teams?
**Julien Marchand:** For Bayonne, they will want to maintain this momentum and capitalize on their confidence. As for Stade Toulousain, they are likely to bounce back strongly. They have the experience and depth to navigate challenges. It will be interesting to see how they adjust their game plan moving forward.
**Interviewer:** Thank you, Julien, for your insights on this exciting match and the broader implications for both teams.
**Julien Marchand:** My pleasure! Always a thrill to discuss rugby.