Which teams were we going to see?
In this derby between convalescent teams and outside the nails for qualification in the final stages, Racing 92, which remained on two defeats in a row, and Stade Français, frustrated at home against Bordeaux, advanced without much certainty.
For the first act of the trilogy of this somewhat faded star wars (before a double confrontation in the European Cup), the 30 actors first alternated between gestures of light and the dark side of the force.
In the first period, the flashes of young Max Spring for Racing and Lester Etien on the Parisian side allowed both teams to score.
The indiscipline and clumsiness of the Ciel et Blancs frustrated the public of the Arena two-thirds full (15,628 spectators), while the Parisians, despite being deprived of their best player, Waisea, found themselves solid replacement leaders, to the image of the former Massicois Macalou, Etienne or Azagoh.
The supporters of the Soldats Roses give voice, in an unequal but high intensity match.
Evidenced by these players hands on knees from the middle of the first half.
Teddy Thomas, the executioner of Parisians
That's when Teddy Thomas came out of his box.
The best try scorer in the Ile-de-France derbies crucified the Parisians for the 9th and 10th time in his career, receiving a kick to follow from Tanga (15-13, 36th), before going there with his double on a service of Le Garrec (43rd).
The return of the young, sharp scrum half is the best news for Racing at the end of the season.
With him, the game of Ciel et Blanc accelerated, and Stade Français took on water in the second period.
Racing largely won with the offensive bonus, 7 tries, and moved up to 6th place.
For the Parisians, it will now be necessary to ensure maintenance in the Top 14. Not sure that the coming of this Racing to Jean-Bouin next week in the European Cup is likely to reassure them.
RACING 92 - FRENCH STADIUM 53-20
(15-13)
Racing 92.
7 tries: Gomes Sa (5th), Thomas (36th, 43rd), Lauret (54th, 67th), Chouzenoux (60th), Imhoff (71st).
6 conversions: Machenaud (6th), Le Garrec (43rd, 54th, 61st, 68th, 72nd).
2 penalties: Machenaud (13th), Le Garrec (52nd).
French Stadium.
2 tries: Etienne (15th), Barré (63rd).
2 transformations: Sanchez (16th), Segonds (64th).
2 penalties: Sanchez (4th, 9th).
