Disappointing seventh and eighth in the Top 14, Toulouse and Clermont took advantage of the European Cup to find a smile. Now with the quarterfinals in sight.
Clermont worn by Fisher
Defeated in Belfast (18-13) during the first leg, the Clermontois take their revenge this Saturday at Stade Marcel-Michelin against Ulster (29-13). Led at half-time (9-10) against the Northern Irish superior in intensity, the Jaunards look up in the wake of Alexandre Fisher, 22, summoned for the first time to the France team Wednesday by Fabien Galthié.
Named man of the match, the 3rd row, impressive in defense, largely contributed to the success of his team as did Alivereti Raka and Georges Moala, authors of the two Clermont tests (49th and 77th). ASM takes first place from its opponent of the day and validates its qualification for the quarter-finals (April 3 to 5). It will nevertheless have to prevail next weekend on the Harlequins lawn to receive the next round.
Morgan Parra's reaction
🏉 #ChampionsCup
🎙️ Morgan Parra: "We are happy today for the qualifier. [...] We will have to win the Harlequins above all to have the quarter-final at home." # RugbyPack pic.twitter.com/srtZoOkF41
Toulouse received 5/5
Like Clermont, the Stade Toulouse is continuing its European idyll. On the Connacht lawn, the French champions win (21-7) for the fifth time in five days of the European Cup. Caught by the throat after a conceded entry penalty test (11th), the teammates of world champion Cheslin Kolbe gradually took over physically thanks in particular to their solid forward package.
Kaino (21st), Marchand (38th) and Akhi (45th) will register the three French tests. Poor at the end of the match and reduced to 13 against 15, the men of Ugo Mola validate their victory thanks to their scrum. Leader of their group with 22 points, the Toulousains will compete as last year in the quarter-finals of the Champions Cup. In the event of a sixth victory at the reception of Gloucester next weekend, the Stade will play its home quarter.
The Toulouse Stadium strong trial
Just before half-time, Stade Toulousain takes the advantage thanks to its second line Julien Marchand with a strong try! #ChampionsCup @StadeToulousain pic.twitter.com/GFBDZY5rZG
- France tv sport (@francetvsport) January 11, 2020Racing 92 will have the opportunity to reach Clermont and Toulouse in the quarterfinals in the event of a victory in its "eighth finals" this Sunday (4:15 pm) against Munster.
