Didier Lacroix still rants about the EPCR and the Champions Cup
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Beaten in the semi-finals of the European Cup by Leinster, Stade Toulousain conceded the Champions Cup in favor of Stade Rochelais this season. A logical continuation as long as the course of the Rouge et Noir could not be more full-bodied. A double confrontation against Ulster with a return match in Ireland, a quarter-final in Dublin against Munster and therefore this half in the same Aviva Stadium against Leinster.
Repeated trips and ever less energy for Toulouse residents who have spent a lot with the France team. If Stade Toulousain provided such a triptych to reach the final, it is because they finished the (short) group stage in seventh place.
The fault of a draw judged by the EPCR and a defeat on green carpet. Decisions which still today, displease the president of the club, Didier Lacroix who made it known:
“On the one hand, there is the satisfaction of having played a fourth semi-final in a row. On the other, I still have the scenario of the group stage in my throat, with in particular these two matches Yes, I’m still furious with the organizers because the two home games they took away from us led to a mediocre qualification.
Not to mention that they forced our coaches to make and break, that is to say to announce a team which, in the end, did not play. In terms of squad management and the rhythm of matches, this period has been catastrophic,” he told L’Equipe.
As for the French championship, Stade Toulousain will defend its title on Saturday with a reception of the new European champion: La Rochelle, for a remake of last season’s final which promises a great show.