The detonations of the fireworks launched less than an hour before kick-off foreshadowed a friendly atmosphere in Ernest-Wallon, last night, for the great premiere of the TO in the Super League. Even if it was not the effervescence of the great evenings around the stadium, the supporters were impatient to vibrate for this historic match. “We’ve been waiting for this for years. Tonight is the big party for the club,” says Alain, a XIII fanatic and unconditional supporter of the TO. “I am fully behind the players. I hope they will tear everything up this year,” projected Lucas, a young player from the club’s academy.

Despite the pressure of a first match in the elite of rugby league, the supporters met wore a broad smile. Ginette, who has seen the club grow as a volunteer and supporter for 60 years, approached this match with peace of mind. “I’m stretched out because I was used to seeing them win last season!” Same feeling on the side of François who swallowed a snack in front of the entrance to the enclosure: “I’m not stressed. I’m waiting to see the atmosphere rise.” Not on Alain’s side, a bit anxious despite the good mood: “I’m a little apprehensive even if basically it’s good stress.”

It went well…

And then the kick-off was given. Very quickly the Toulousans took control, leading 10-0, enthusing their supporters… before the trend was reversed half an hour into the game. And Huddersfield ended up knocking out the Toulousans (42-12) . In the end, the heavy defeat of the TO was due to swallow especially after the promising start of the match of the “blue and white”.

“Learning is going to be difficult,” reacted Georges as he left the podium. “I’m a little worried about what’s next.” For another supporter, Alain, the level difference was too great. “I felt the delta between last year’s games and tonight’s,” he analyzed. In the stands, the mines were undone but the heads were high at the exit of the stadium. Because the fans know it: the TO still has to break in to earn its place in the Super League.