Racing is solid, it does not have many weaknesses, and it is starting to scare even the grown-ups. Clermont suffered the law of the Parisians at Paris-La Défense-Arena this Saturday evening (27-19) during a clash between contenders for the title both dense and spectacular.
What you must remember
Trunk in front, legs behind. And masters to play to orchestrate everything. The profile of Racing 92 begins to resemble a serious candidate for the Brennus shield. After a first sequence in which they set up a real wall against Clermont initiatives, the Ciel et Blancs sound the load on a good maul of families where the most beautiful baby of all, Ben Tameifuna - almost 140 kg on the scales - finds himself propelled into the in-goal (7th). After a few defense sessions, the Racingmen then bet on speed: a breakthrough Vakatawa full field, a pass of twenty meters for his wing Thomas who masterfully honed his rival Raka and file behind the line (28th). Ile-de-France residents logically lead the dance (17-6) at the break. Then they play tricksters when their opponents start to raise their heads. Melee, breakaway along the line of Teddy Iribaren, little kick for himself, forty meter test (24-12). Damian Penaud maintains the hope of Clermont by scoring afterwards with a beautiful flurry on his opposite Louis Dupichot (55th). Not enough, however, to style Racing where François Trinh-Duc, who entered in the 68th minute, made a new appearance.
The Player: Teddy Iribaren
The scrum half, captain and goalscorer of Ciel et Blanc was instrumental. Author of a 100% on the foot, he scored a test on a personal feat (48th) and above all he distributed the game perfectly.
The number
3. The Ile-de-France residents recorded their third success of the season at home in the Top 14. They thus put into balance a balance sheet hitherto negative with three wins, a draw and three defeats.