Toulouse did not have the weapons
There was no match. Eight tries to 0 for the Bisons and a big defeat for the courageous but overwhelmed Toulousains. More powerful, more players and better organized in defense, the Avignonnais had fun, without ever leaving their pre-established game systems. An easy victory against a weaker opponent, who does not remain in the annals but which allows the bisons to end this regular phase with a good victory before starting the final phases.
It all started quickly since the back of Avignon Olivier Arnaud, recovered the ball in order to break the defensive curtain to put Jack Payne (3rd) into orbit. This first try launches the offensive machine of the “blue and white” who follow up with two new hot situations in front of the Toulouse line. Under the impetus of captain Romain Pallares, the TO tries to take the ball into the opposing camp without success. Unable to control the downs, Toulouse expose themselves to local accelerations. The power of Tongan Pio Seci allows winger Hugo Demonte to sneak between the defenders (12-0). The game is balanced but, just before the break, on a serve from the ex-quinziste de Castres Ludovic Radosavljevic, Romain Pourret sinks the Toulouse wall (18-0).
Dark Toulouse
On the restart, play only goes one way. The Toulouse formation does not however want to abdicate. Michalak, Ross and Sangaré work to get their hands on the ball but fall on an excellent defense. The TO takes risks and is countered by Hugo Demonte who spins under the posts after a run of 80 meters.
Thérond’s teammates continued their efforts, but approximations in the finish did not allow them to save the honor. It is Avignon which is more realistic. Salphati and Andreu come to put an end to the torture of Toulouse who can put away the crampons for this season.
MT: 18-0.
Winners: 8 E Payne (3), Demonte (11), (60), Pourret (36), Salphati (44), (74), Seci (47), Andreu (77); 7 T Arnaud (3), (11), (36), (47), (60), (74), (77).
AVIGNON: Arnaud, Demonte, Avis, Andreu, Salphati, Radosavljevic, Payne, Mezyani, Ganz, Mallem, Pourret, Seci, Bissière.
The following came into play: Comtat, Preel, Delor, Emblard.
OLYMPIC TOULOUSE: Laguerre, Ruffie, Tropis, Martinod, Lima, Gonzalez-Trique, Thérond, Sangaré, Pallares, Ross, Cousin, Sayam, Garcia.
Came into play: Michalak, Tomasi, Ennoyotie, Pomié.