Seven thrilling tries scored by Stade Francais mark a bright start to the Top 14 season under sunny skies.
In the first round of the French Top 14, several teams showcased their strengths and weaknesses, with some teams starting their season on a high note while others are still searching for their winning formula.
Racing 92, last season's semi-finalists, suffered a disappointing start against Lyon, losing 32-7. Conceding three tries in the first half and collecting a yellow card, Racing 92 found themselves trailing 25-7 at the break. Despite a valiant effort in the second half, they were unable to turn the tide. Coach Patrice Collazo expressed concern about his team's discipline, conceding 19 penalties and picking up three yellow cards.
Meanwhile, Toulon, last year's semi-finalists, started their season with a win at Montpellier, securing a 10-point victory (27-17). Toulon led 24-3 at half-time, running in three tries, and held on despite Tom Banks scoring a try for Montpellier at the end of the game.
Bayonne, who finished fourth last season, won their opening game against Perpignan (26-19). The hosts pushed hard at the end of the game but were unable to overtake Toulon. Bayonne scored twice in the last three minutes of the first half, taking a 14-10 lead, and held on to their advantage.
Elsewhere, Stade Francais started their game with tries by Joe Jonas and Baptiste Pesenti, and went on to score five more tries against Montauban. Stade Francais' tries were scored by Yoan Tanga Mangene, Louis Carbonel, Tawera Kerr-Barlow, Lucas Peyresblanques, and Tani Vili. Montauban responded with tries by Josua Vici and Kyllian Ringuet, but it was not enough to overcome Stade Francais' dominance.
Pau won their opening game against Castres (17-15). Despite Castres scoring two tries, four penalties by Joe Simmonds gave Pau a gritty two-point win.
The final match of the first round will see Bordeaux-Begles and La Rochelle go head-to-head.
In the previous Super Rugby Pacific season, the teams that advanced to the semifinals were the Crusaders and the Chiefs, who defeated the Blues and the Brumbies respectively. As the French Top 14 season unfolds, it will be interesting to see which teams can replicate their success and challenge for the title.
Home coach Paul Gustard stated that this season presents a new opportunity for the entire team, and it remains to be seen how the teams will fare in the coming weeks. Perpignan, who finished a point below Stade Francais last season, could not repeat their late heroics against Bayonne, and will be hoping to bounce back in their next game.
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