This Saturday, La Rochelle disposed of Clermont (26-13), during the 23rd day of Top 14. This allows it to consolidate its second place.
The essential is assured. This Saturday afternoon, opening the 23rd day of Top 14, La Rochelle beat Clermont (26-13). A victory acquired with the offensive bonus. The Maritimes take advantage of this, at the same time, to consolidate their second place in the classification of the French rugby championship, with a provisional ten-point lead over their first pursuer, namely the Stade Français, third.
In their Michel-Deflandre stadium, the Rochelais had done the hardest part during the first period. Indeed, at the break, the score was already largely in their favor (19-0). After a first quarter of an hour rather dominated by the Clermontois, who however failed to materialize with even several missed penalties by the opening half Anthony Belleau, the locals reacted. Three trials were even registered.
Clermont woke up in the second act
One by the Argentine pillar Joel Sclavi (16th), transformed by the opening half Antoine Hastoy, a second by the third line Paul Boudehent (32nd), also transformed by Hastoy, before a third and last by the three-quarter wing Teddy Thomas (40th) this time not transformed. It was then in the second act that the visitors woke up. A try from scrum half Baptiste Jauneau converted by Belleau then two penalties from Belleau and fly half Jules Plisson allowed the Jaunards to put pressure on their opponents of the day (19-13).
But, at the end of the game, the offensive bonus was therefore definitively acquired by La Rochelle. Following a final try scored by the three-quarter wing Dillyn Leyds (77th). A test that Hastoy then transformed. A perfect day for La Rochelle. While looming, in a short week, his semi-final in the Champions Cup. It will be on the side of Matmut Atlantique, against Exeter.