Grenoble Edges Towards Top 14 Promotion After Narrow Semi-Final Win
Grenoble is on the cusp of returning to the Top 14, following a nail-biting Pro D2 semi-final victory over Provence Rugby, clinching the game with a 23-22 scoreline. The Isérois, who will play the final on June 8, are just one match away from ascending back to the Top 14, five years after their exit. The second semi-final on Friday in Toulouse will determine whether Grenoble will face Vannes or Béziers. Despite Provence Rugby's strong start, leading up to 17-9 with tries from Romain Trouilloud and Mathias Colombet, Grenoble's resilience shone through. Sam Davies' crucial drop goal and Nathan Farissier's try exemplified Grenoble's resolve and aptitude.
Should Grenoble falter in the final, they still have a shot at promotion by contesting a decisive access match against Montpellier, who are currently 13th in the Top 14. This opportunity comes as a relief for the team that has faced point deductions due to financial problems.
Pau's Final Push for Top 14 Playoffs
In another corner of French rugby, Pau finds itself in a critical battle to secure a place in the Top 14 playoffs. Currently seventh in the standings, the Béarnais are set to face Racing 92 at the Abbé-Deschamps stadium in Auxerre. This match is pivotal for Pau, as Racing 92 is just one point ahead of them in the standings.
Nathan Decron, Pau's three-quarter center, has emphasized the necessity of securing a win to keep their playoff dreams alive. Following a victory against Montpellier and a narrow loss to La Rochelle, the team is eager to overcome its poor away record, having lost 10 out of 12 away games this season.
Manager Sébastien Piqueronies remains hopeful for a top-six finish, a significant achievement for a team that has hovered in the mid-table or worse in previous seasons. However, concerns loom over the fitness of key player Sam Whitelock, who suffered a concussion in their last match against La Rochelle. The team's indiscipline also remains an issue, having been heavily penalized in their recent outings.
- Enthusiastic fans are expected to turn up in droves to support their respective teams as both Grenoble and Pau look to finish their seasons on a high note. Grenoble’s fans will be especially eager, considering their recent financial hardships and previous close calls for promotion.
- With just two matches remaining, Pau’s hopes hang by a thread, but a victory against Racing 92 could set the stage for an exhilarating season finale. The players are more motivated than ever, with the club's history and aspirations driving their performance on the field.
