Top 14 Shocker: Clermont Upsets La Rochelle,Racing 92 Eye Top Six
Clermont Auvergne delivered a stunning upset victory over league-leading la Rochelle this weekend,while Racing 92 aim to climb back into the top six. The 10th day of the Top 14 season saw a mix of expected results and surprising turns, setting the stage for a fiercely competitive second half of the season.
The league standings are tightening as teams return from a short break, with crucial matches impacting playoff contention and the battle to avoid relegation. This round of fixtures offered a glimpse into the form of teams following the pause, and highlighted the unpredictable nature of the Top 14.
Racing 92 – Oyonnax: Returning to their home ground, Racing 92 are eager to break back into the top six. Our prediction: victory for Racing 92.
La Rochelle – Castres: Despite recent losses in Clermont (63-14) and against UBB, Castres entered the break with lingering doubts. La Rochelle, though, saw progress during their postponed match at Mayol, though the opportunity to take the league lead slipped away. Our prediction: victory for La Rochelle.
Montauban – Toulouse: Promoted Montauban secured a vital win against perpignan, gaining crucial points in their fight for survival. However, a clear gap in class remains, as evidenced by their subsequent loss in Bayonne, a disparity that will be starkly apparent against the double titleholders from Toulouse. Our prediction: victory for Toulouse.
Perpignan - Montpellier: Perpignan, still at the bottom of the standings, showed encouraging signs in their near-win in Pau, demonstrating a newfound character. This has given new manager Laurent Labit positive foundations to build upon. Our prediction: victory for Perpignan, defensive bonus for Montpellier.
stade Français – Toulon: Sunday’s headline match sees Stade Français hosting RC Toulon. While Toulon stumbled during the break,they secured a significant win at Mayol. Currently second in the standings, tied with toulouse, they aim to prove their consistency with another road victory, a challenge the Parisians – winners of their last six at Jean-Bouin – will fiercely contest.Our prediction: victory for Stade français, defensive bonus for Toulon.
