Category: Rugby

With the start of the Gallagher Premiership season less than a week away, Planet Rugby spoke to Bristol Bears number eight Jordan Crane.

Recent history suggests that the joy of promotion to the English Premiership often gives way to the pain of fighting for survival the very next season but, if there is a team which can reverse that trend, it is Pat Lam’s ambitious Bristol squad.

Not since Exeter Chiefs in 2010/11 has the team coming up from the second-tier thrived in the league above. Even money means little should they get it wrong behind the scenes, as the experienced Crane knows all too well.

For a club whose financial power is significant, the Bristolians’ foray back in England’s top-flight in 2016/17 was an unmitigated disaster. And it all began before the season had even started. Recruitment was poor, there was upheaval in the coaching staff following Sean Holley’s departure and the squad was simply not prepared for the rigours of the Premiership.

The play-offs certainly played its part in that. Having dominated the Championship, winning 20 of their 22 matches during the campaign, they still had to go through four more games to secure promotion.

Andy Robinson’s charges did just that and they deservedly took their place at the highest echelon of England’s domestic pyramid, but realistically the Ashton Gate outfit were ill-equipped to compete.

It is something Crane readily admits but the 32-year-old is confident that those mistakes will not be repeated. Time, something that was lacking two years ago, has been handed to them after the abolition of the play-off system and, as a result, they appear far more self-assured.

“With the play-offs, it’s difficult for the team coming up because of recruitment and all that sort of stuff. You end up starting pre-season later so you’re not as prepared,” the number eight told Planet Rugby.

“Last time, we changed defence coach and attack coach so that wasn’t a smooth transition. This year we’ve had the luxury of Pat and Conor (McPhillips) being in all last season so we’ve got that continuity. Hopefully it’s going to give us a good head start on the rest of the teams.”

Following Bristol’s relegation in 2017, Lam came in from Connacht and immediately set about making changes. Of course, the all-singing, all-dancing approach, which was a hallmark of his time at the Irish province, was prevalent but the New Zealander also sought to alter other areas.

Crane said: “It’s just an accountability of players knowing their roles and knowing their responsibilities to the team, that’s one of the big things, and then we’ve worked hard on our culture; what sort of team and what sort of group we want to be.

“Pat’s done that really well. You look at most good teams, they’ve got a good culture, and that’s what we’re trying to build at Bristol. We’re trying to build it with the whole city as well.

“Away from the spotlight, it gave Pat a chance to implement his style and what he wanted from us as a team, and we could embed his culture into the side. It gave us an opportunity, so we are better prepared this time around for the Premiership.

“It’s inevitable that it’s going to be more intense, the physicality’s higher. Pat implemented a role and responsibility and for boys to know their detail, and there’s a real big emphasis on that in the team.

“That will help us to be more accurate as well and give us a better opportunity in terms of staying in games and winning games.”

Lam may have looked at improving the culture but the spending has not stopped, however, with Charles Piutau, John Afoa and George Smith among those to join a squad already boasting significant talent. Steven Luatua, Ian Madigan and Luke Morahan – all international quality players – unsurprisingly dominated in the Championship and Crane has been impressed the players’ attitude.

According to the back-rower, some showed their desire in pre-season by “coming in off their own back”, while the addition of Smith will both add competition and give them an opportunity to learn off a genuine great of the game.

“We’re all looking forward to learning from him,” Crane added. “He’s been one of the best players in the world for a long time so it will be great to learn off him, even us older guys.

“We’ve got quality in the back-row, plenty of competition and, if we’re all competing for spots, it’s only going to make us better as a team. It should be a good year.”

The Premiership is still a difficult beast for all promoted sides to crack but this Bristol outfit are the best placed for several years to not concern themselves with simply battling for survival.

by Colin Newboult

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Springboks head coach Rassie Erasmus has described his side’s 32-19 Rugby Championship defeat to Argentina in Mendoza on Saturday as embarrassing.

One week after suffering a 34-21 defeat at the hands of the Springboks in Durban, the resurgent Pumas produced a physical performance to snap an 11-match Rugby Championship losing streak in front of an ecstatic crowd at the Estadio Malvinas Argentinas, following a 27-7 lead at half-time.

Erasmus was brutally honest in his assessment of the Springboks’ poor performance.

“It was embarrassing and not the kind of performance you expect to see from the Springboks,” he said.

“We made only one change to the starting team from last week, when we dominated them. We have to point the fingers to ourselves, firstly as coaches and then as players, and we will have to fix it.”

Erasmus said that travelling to Argentina was definitely not a factor.

“We travelled a day later and in the second half we outplayed them because we were the fresher team,” he added.

“We were playing better rugby in the second half but we just didn’t make use of our opportunities.

“I’m not going to look for positives after a performance like that. We have no excuses, we knew exactly what to expect, we prepared for it but we just didn’t handle it.”

Springbok skipper Siya Kolisi scored his side’s only try in the first half and the Boks delivered a much better performance in the second half.

Lionel Mapoe (replacement wing) scored twice in the right-hand corner after the break for his first tries in the green and gold jersey. Mapoe was an early replacement for Makazole Mapimpi, who suffered a knock to the knee.

Argentina outscored the Springboks by four tries to three, with Nicolas Sanchez instrumental, scoring 17 points courtesy of a try, three conversions, a penalty and a drop goal.

The Springboks return home on Tuesday and the squad will re-assemble on Saturday in Johannesburg, from where they will travel to Brisbane for their next fixture, on September 8 against the Wallabies at the Suncorp Stadium.

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Stade Francais opened their Top 14 season with a bonus-point victory at Perpignan, despite having Sergio Parisse red carded late in the first-half.

Bordeaux-Bègles, Clermont and La Rochelle also won while Lyon and Toulouse drew their opener before Racing 92 won the late game against Toulon.

Results

Saturday
Perpignan 15-46 Stade Francais
Bordeaux-Bègles 41-19 Pau
Clermont Auvergne 67-23 Agen
La Rochelle 28-21 Grenoble
Lyon 16-16 Toulouse
Toulon 9-25 Racing 92

Perpignan 15-46 Stade Francais
Stade Aime Giral

Stade Francais began their Top 14 campaign with a 46-15 win over newly promoted Perpignan.

Leading 29-3 at half-time thanks to an impressive 40 minutes that saw flank Sekou Macalou (2), full-back Kylan Hamdaoui and centre Waisea Nayacalevu cross, Stade were in excellent form early on.

However, a red card for Sergio Parisse on 36 minutes for leading with the elbow in contact offered USAP a possible route back into the game.

New signing Paddy Jackson did cross wide out on 53 minutes and when Perpignan were awarded a penalty try after a strong scrum on the hour mark, they were just 29-15 adrift of the Parisians.

But Stade responded well with scores from Hamdaoui and Piet van Zyl putting the result beyond doubt, as they kick-off with a maximum.

The scorers:

For Perpignan:
Tries: Jackson, Penalty try
Pen: Jackson

For Stade Francais:
Tries: Macalou 2, Hamdaoui 2, Nayacalevu, Van Zyl
Cons: Steyn 5
Pens: Steyn, Plisson

Perpignan: 15 Julien Farnoux, 14 Jonathan Bousquet, 13 Afusipa Taumoepeau, 12 Sione Piukala, 11 Mathieu Acebes, 10 Paddy Jackson, 9 Tom Ecochard, 8 Genesis Mamea Lemalu, 7 Alan Brazo, 6 Karl Chateau, 5 Berend Botha, 4 Masalosalo Tutaia, 3 Gert Muller, 2 Rapahel Carbou, 1 Enzo Forletta
Replacements: 16 Manu Leiataua, 17 Yassin Boutemani, 18 Tristan Laboutely, 19 Shahn Eru, 20 Sadek Degmache, 21 Enzo Selponi, 22 Adrea Cocagi, 23 Eric Sione

Stade Francais: 15 Kylan Hamdaoui, 14 Julien Arias, 13 Waisea Nayacalevu, 12 Jonathan Danty, 11 Tony Ensor, 10 Morne Steyn, 9 Piet van Zyl, 8 Sergio Parisse, 7 Sekou Macalou, 6 Ryan Chapuis, 5 Alexandre Flanquart, 4 Hugh Pyle, 3 Ramiro Herrera, 2 Remi Bonfils, 1 Hendrik van der Merwe
Replacements: 16 Laurent Panis, 17 Siegfried Fisiihoi, 18 Mathieu de Giovanni, 19 Charlie Frncoz, 20 Clement Daguin, 21Jules Plisson, 22 Julien Delbouis, 23 Paul Alo-Emile

Referee: Laurent Cardona
Assistant referees: Thomas Charabas, Richard Duhau
TMO: Denis Grenouillet

Bordeaux-Bègles 41-19 Pau
Stade Chaban-Delmas

A seesaw encounter in French wine territory eventually saw the home side run away with it thanks to three tries in the final quarter.

Romain Lonca scored twice as did Nans Ducuing to earn Bordeaux a 41-19 win that wasn’t always as comprehensive as it looked.

Baptiste Serin kicked five penalties and two conversions to keep the scoreboard ticking over whilst Pau used three different kickers throughout the match as they constantly looked to stay in touch.

Tom Taylor kicked their opening two penalties before Thibault Daubagna also added his own effort to cancel out Serin’s opening two attempts. Taylor’s fellow All Black Colin Slade kicked himself a penalty to close the gap to 13-12 after Ducuing scored the first of his two tries.

Serin added another three before Daubagna crossed the whitewash to put Pau in the lead. Serin then kicked a further two three pointers before Ducuing’s second try opened up an eight point gap.

Pau had nothing left to respond with and Lonca’s two tries in the final minutes, both converted by Serin, gave the hosts a rewarding first win.

The scorers:

For Bordeaux-Bègles:
Tries: Ducuing 2, Lonca 2
Cons: Serin 3
Pens: Serin 5

For Pau:
Try: Daubagna
Con: Slade
Pens: Taylor 2, Daubagna, Slade

Bordeaux: 15 Nans Ducuing, 14 George Tilsley, 13 Romain Lonca, 12 Ulupano Seuteni, 11 Blair Connor, 10 Brock James, 9 Baptiste Serin, 8 Afa Amosa, 7 Alexandre Roumat, 6 Mahamadou Diaby, 5 Cyril Cazeaux, 4 Kane Douglas, 3 Vadim Cobilas, 2 Florian Dufour, 1 Lekso Kaulashvili
Replacements: 16 Maxime Lamothe, 17 Thierry Paiva, 18 Jandre Marais, 19 Cameron Woki, 20 Jules Gimbert, 21 Semi Radradra, 22 Eto Nabuli, 23 Lasha Tabidze

Pau: 15 Charly Malie, 14 Adrien Plante, 13 Julien Fumat, 12 Jale Vatubua, 11 Watisoni Votu, 10 Colin Slade, 9 Thibault Daubagna, 8 Antoine Erbani, 7 Sean Dougall, 6 Benjamin Mowen, 5 Fabrice Metz, 4 Daniel Ramsay, 3 Lourens Adriaanse, 2 Quentin Lespiaucq, 1 Geoffrey Moise
Replacements: 16 Laurent Bouchet, 17 Jamie Mackintosh, 18 David Foley, 19 Baptiste Pesenti, 20 Martin Puech, 21 Julien Blanc, 22 Tom Taylor, 23 Nicolas Corato

Referee: Pierre Brousset
Assistant referees: Ludovic Cayre, Arnaud Blondel
TMO: Philippe Bonhoure

Clermont Auvergne 67-23 Agen
Parc des Sports Marcel Michelin

Two tries in the space of five second-half minutes turned a nervous contest in Clermont’s favour as they began their campaign with a win.

Keen to abolish any memories of last year’s woeful campaign by their high standards; Samuel Ezeala and Sipili Falatea both crossed to turn a one point half-time deficit into a 29-16 lead and the home side never looked back.

11 points from the boot of Jake McIntyre coupled with Tamaz Mchedildze’s try had usurped Isaia Toeava’s first-half brace and five points from Greig Laidlaw to send the visitors in 16-15 up at the break.

Ezeala and Falatea then turned the game on its head and Alivereti Raka’s quick double ended the contest as he scored Clermont’s fifth and sixth try to make the score 41-16.

A further four tries in 12 minutes of the final quarter sealed a ten try rout for the hosts as Ezeala sealed his brace, Peter Betham entered to grab a quick fire brace of his own and Apisai Naqlevu also got in the act.

Sandwiched in Clermont’s late rally was a further consolation for Agen but there’s no doubting who got the better of this contest on opening day.

The scorers:

For Clermont:
Tries: Toeava 2, Ezeala 2, Falatea, Raka 2, Betham 2, Naqalevu
Cons: Laidlaw 7
Pen: Laidlaw

For Agen:
Tries: Mchedlidze, Tanga
Cons: McIntyre, Vincent
Pens: McIntyre 3

Clermont: 15 Setariki Tuicuvu, 14 Alivereti Raka, 13 Isaia Toeava, 12 Apisai Naqalevu, 11 Samuel Ezeala, 10 Camille Lopez, 9 Greig Laidlaw, 8 Fritz Lee, 7 Damien Chouly, 6 Peceli Yato, 5 Sebastien Vahaamahina, 4 Sitaleki Timani, 3 Davit Zirakashvili, 2 John Ulugia, 1 Etienne Falgoux
Replacements: 16 Benjamin Kayser, 17 Loni Uhila, 18 Arthur Iturria, 19 Alexandre Fischer 20 Charlie Cassang, 21 Patricio Fernandez, 22 Peter Betham, 23 Sipili Falatea

Agen: 15 Mathieu Lamolie, 14 Loris Tolot, 13 Sam Vaka, 12 Tamaz Mchedlidze, 11 Valentin Saurs, 10 Jake McIntyre, 9 Paul Abadie, 8 Yoan Mangene, 7 Antoine Miquel, 6 Romain Briatte, 5 Thomas Murday, 4 Denis Marchois, 3 David Ryan, 2 Marc Barthomeuf, 1 Giorgi Tetrashvili
Replacements: 16 Paula Ngauamo, 17 Quentin Bethune, 18 Mickael de Marco, 19 Andres Tarazone, 20 Lucas Rubio, 21 Thomas Vincent, 22 Clement Laporte, 23 Yohan Montes

Referee: Maxime Chalon
Assistant referees: Vincent Blasco-Baque, Laurent Breil
TMO: Eric Gauzins

La Rochelle 28-21 Grenoble
Stade Marcel-Deflandre

Newly promoted Grenoble reintroduced themselves to the Top 14 and gave a strong account of themselves as they narrowly went down at La Rochelle.

Trailing 18-8 at the break, Grenoble staged somewhat of a comeback when Leva Fifita’s try made it 23-21 with a quarter of an hour to play but Jean-Charles Orioli’s try on 75 minutes sealed the contest.

Eight points from Alexi Bales’ boot coupled with a try from new man Marc Andreu and Brieuc Plessis-Couillaud had given the home side a commanding lead with Grenoble only having a solitary Lolagi Visinia try and a penalty from Franck Pourteau to show for their efforts.

He kicked a further two penalties in the second 40 before Greg Alldritt had scored La Rochelle’s third try to once again extend the gap. But Fifita’s late try bore hope to sealing a memorable win before the home side showed their experience to see out their opening game.

The scorers:

For La Rochelle:
Tries: Andreu, Plessis-Couillaud, Alldritt, Orioli
Con: Bales
Pens: Bales 2

For Grenoble:
Tries: Visinia, Fifita
Con: Pourteau
Pens: Pourteau 3

La Rochelle: 15 Arthur Retiere, 14 Vincent Rattez, 13 Brieuc Plessis-Couillaud, 12 Pierre Aguillon, 11 Marc Andreu, 10 Jeremy Sinzelle, 9 Alexi Bales, 8 Victor Vito, 7 Remi Bourdeau, 6 Zeno Kieft, 5 Lopeti Timani, 4 Romain Sazy, 3 Arthur Joly, 2 Pierre Bourgarit, 1 Vincent Pelo
Replacements: 16 Jean-Charles Orioli, 17 Mike Corbel, 18 Mathieu Tanguy, 19 Gregory Alldritt, 20 Jean-Victor Goillot, 21 Ryan Lamb, 22 Jules Favre, 23 Leo Aouf

Grenoble: 15 Lolagi Visinia, 14 Raymond Rhule, 13 Pablo Uberti, 12 Alaska Taufa, 11 Lucas Dupont, 10 Franck Pourteau, 9 Lilian Saseras, 8 Loic Godener, 7 Stephen Setephano, 6 Francois Uys, 5 Salesi Fifita, 4 Mickael Capelli, 3 Davit Kubriashvili, 2 Etienne Fourcade, 1 JC Janse van Rensburg
Replacements: 16 Mike Tadjer, 17 Dylan Jacquot, 18 Hans Nkinsi, 19 Clement Ancely, 20 Jeremy Valencot, 21 Ben Lucas, 22 Taleta Tupuola, 23 Halani Aulika

Referee: Jonathan Dufort
Assistant referees: Julien Castaignede, Jean-Luc Rebollal
TMO: Bruno Bressot

Lyon 16-16 Toulouse
Matmut Stadium de Gerland

Lyon’s draw at Toulon last year was a memorable one in the Top 14 quarters, this however was one that got away.

Thomas Ramos’ drop-goal with five minutes left sealed a 16-16 draw for Toulouse in Lyon after their former player Jean-Marc Doussain had almost kicked Lyon to victory.

He and Ramos both kicked 11 points in a contest than had Toulouse trailing for much of it. Etienne Oosthuizen’s first-half try had Lyon leading 10-6 at the break but Yoann Huget notched a try for Toulouse to make it 13-10 to the visitors.

Two penalties from Doussain then pushed Lyon back in front but Ramos remained cool under pressure to earn his side a draw.

The scorers:

For Lyon:
Try: Oosthuizen
Con: Doussain
Pens: Doussain 3

For Toulouse:
Try: Huget
Con: Ramos
Pens: Ramos 2
Drop-Goal: Ramos

Lyon: 15 Delon Armitage, 14 Toby Arnold, 13 Rudi Wulf, 12 Charlie Ngatai, 11 Noa Nakaitaci, 10 Jean-Marc Doussain, 9 Baptiste Couilloud, 8 Loann Goujon, 7 Liam Gill, 6 Julien Puricelli, 5 Francois van der Merwe, 4 Etienne Oosthuizen, 3 Francisco Gomez Kodela, 2 Jeremie Maurouard, 1 Raphael Chaume
Replacements: 16 Virgile Lacombe, 17 Alexandre Menini, 18 Hendrik Roodt, 19 Patrick Sobela, 20 Jonathan Pelissie, 21 Jean-Marcellin Buttin, 22 Thibaut Regard, 23 Clement Ric

Toulouse: 15 Thomas Ramos, 14 Yoann Huget, 13 Pierre Fouyssac, 12 Romain Ntamack, 11 Cheslin Kolbe, 10 Zack Holmes, 9 Sebastien Bezy, 8 Jerome Kaino, 7 Rynhardt Elstadt, 6 Francois Cros, 5 Piula Fa’asalele, 4 Florian Verhaeghe, 3 Charlie Faumuina, 2 Julien Marchand, 1 Lucas Pointud
Replacements: 16 Leonardo Ghiraldini, 17 Rodrigue Neti, 18 Joe Tekori, 19 Selevasio Tolofua, 20 Pierre Pages, 21 Maxime Mermoz, 22 Sofiane Guitoune, 23 Dorian Aldegheri

Referee: Alexandre Ruiz
Assistant referees: Luc Ramos, Sebastien Hebert
TMO: Eric Briquet-Campin

Toulon 9-25 Racing 92
Stade Mayol

The mercurial – and immensely well paid – Finn Russell began justifying both his talent and salary within his first competitive 80 minutes at the Parisian side.

Scorer of two tries as well as 10 points from his boot; the Scotsman single handedly turned what looked to be a kicking contest into a one man show.

Patrice Collazo’s debut at his new Stade Mayol home was an unsuccessful one but his Toulon outfit were made to pay for a 10 minute period in which Racing scored 12 points whilst Malakai Fekitoa was in the sin bin.

Louis Carbonel initially kicked the first points of the game; kicking two first-half penalties to Russell’s one to give the hosts a 6-3 lead at the interval.

Racing then turned the game with their quick burst of 12 points in less than five minutes to make it 15-6 before Carobnel kicked his third penalty to cut the gap.

Racing’s advantage though was hammered home minutes later when the irresistibly quick Juan Imhoff notched his first try of the year. Russell kicked the conversion and a further penalty to make it 25-9 taking his personal haul for the night to 20 points.

No doubting who the star of the show was on opening night, his employers will be hoping it continues. Those on the Cote d’Azur however will be hoping to turn the tables as the season progresses.

The scorers:

For Toulon:
Pens: Carbonel 3

For Racing 92:
Tries: Russell 2, Imhoff
Cons: Russell 2
Pens: Russell 2

Toulon: 15 Hugo Bonneval, 14 Filipo Nakosi, 13 Josua Tuisova, 12 Malakai Fekitoa, 11 Daniel Ikpefan, 10 Louis Carbonel, 9 Rhys Webb, 8 Charles Ollivon, 7 Raphael Lakafia, 6 Swan Rebbadj, 5 Romain Taofifenua, 4 Mamuka Gorgodze, 3 Marcel van der Merwe, 2 Guilhem Guirado, 1 Florian Fresia
Replacements: 16 Anthony Etrillard, 17 Sebastien Taofifenua, 18 Juandre Kruger, 19 Stephane Onambele, 20 Mathieu Smaili, 21 Jacques Potgieter, 22 Anthony Meric, 23 Emerick Setiano

Racing: 15 Simon Zebo, 14 Joe Rokocoko, 13 Virimi Vakatawa, 12 Henry Chavancy, 11 Juan Imhoff, 10 Finn Russell, 9 Teddy Iribaren, 8 Antonie Claassen, 7 Baptiste Chouzenoux, 6 Wenceslas Lauret, 5 Donnacha Ryan, 4 Boris Palu, 3 Ben Tameifuna, 2 Ole Avei, 1 Eddy Ben Arous
Replacements: 16 Teddy Baubigny, 17 Vasil Kakovin, 18 Edwin Maka, 19 Jordan Joseph, 20 Xavier Chauveau, 21 Olivier Klemenczak, 22 Ben Volavola, 23 Census Johnston

Referee: Romain Poite
Assistant referees: Cyril Lafon, Bruno Gabaldon
TMO: Laurent Sclafer

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Brumbies record cap holder Ben Alexander has announced his retirement from professional rugby following a long and glittering career.

The prop, who played 154 times for the Brumbies in Super Rugby and won 72 Test caps for the Wallabies, leaves behind a plethora of sporting memories.

Alexander, born in Sydney, joined the Brumbies in 2008 and made his debut the same year against the Reds in Canberra replacing Salesi Ma’afu in the 43-11 home success.

A regular substitute in his first season, Alexander made his first start the following year at Ellis Park in Johannesburg against the Lions.

Quickly forging a reputation as a solid performer, and an expert proponent of the set-piece, Alexander made an impression on the national selectors and was called up for a first Wallabies appearance after only playing half-a-dozen times for the Brumbies.

He made his Wallabies debut as a 59th minute replacement for Benn Robinson in the 34-13 win over France at Stadium Australia in Sydney in 2008 and was a regular selection thereafter with his ability to play either side of the scrum a massive plus for his coaches at all levels.

“Ben has been a loyal club man and incredible talent,” said Brumbies CEO Michael Thomson about the announcement.

“Not only is he a tremendous rugby player, Ben is also a wonderful man and is a very popular person amongst the players, staff and supporters. His commitment to the club is second-to-none and is exemplified by his retirement as our record cap holder.

“To play over 150 matches in Super Rugby for one team is testament to his qualities but, to everyone who knows him, Ben is so much more than a rugby player, being the successful businessman and great family-man. His experience and presence will be missed on the field, but we are hoping that he will continue to be a regular visitor to the club.

“We thank Ben for his contribution and wish he and his young family all the best for the future.”

Brumbies head coach Dan McKellar echoed Thomson’s comments about a player who was part of the fabric of the Canberra-based club for over a decade of service.

“Ben has been at the club for a long period of time and is a guy who is very popular amongst the playing group, is highly respected, and has had a tremendous career having made a significant contribution to the Brumbies,” said McKellar.

“Ben started as a Loose head and moved across to Tight head and, at times through his career, he played one for the Brumbies and different for the Wallabies. That says a lot about his character in that he always did what was best for the team and the group.

“Because of his experience, and the fact he has been around for a long time, he has an opinion that you value, and that knowledge and experience is something that we will miss.”

Alexander’s last match in a Brumbies shirt was the 40-31 win over the Waratahs at Allianz Stadium in Sydney earlier this year when he replaced fellow front-row Nic Mayhew in the 62nd minute. A fitting end to a glorious career.

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Argentina captain Agustin Creevy could not hide his delight after his side secured a memorable 32-19 win over South Africa in Mendoza on Saturday.

Creevy described his side’s triumph as “special” because it ended an 11-match losing streak in the Rugby Championship.

The result against the Springboks is also significant after los Pumas suffered a 34-21 defeat against the two-time world champions in the corresponding fixture in Durban last weekend.

“All victories are sweet, but this one was particularly satisfying,” Creevy told AFP.

“We faced a powerful Springboks team and we won — that is special. We took a big step forward from last weekend when we lost in Durban.

“The team learnt from the mistakes made in South Africa. We attacked brilliantly in the first half and defended equally brilliantly in the second half.”

Fly-half and man-of-the-match Nicolas Sanchez, who contirbuted 17 points, praised the crowd in Mendoza and said they inspired the team to victory.

“This is a perfect venue for us,” he revealed.

“The crowd were magnificent. They inspired us with their sustained support.

“The second half was extremely difficult for us because South Africa had a lot of possession and were camped in our half of the pitch.

“They tried to wear us out, but we kept our lead thanks to a gigantic effort by everyone — the run-on team and the replacements.

“I favoured tactical kicking at times to slow the pace and try to dictate the rhythm of the match.”

Follow us on Twitter @PlanetRugby and like our Facebook page. 

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England and Bath utility back Anthony Watson wants players’ games to be limited to 20 matches per year for the sake of their well-being.

The Rugby Football Union (RFU) will lead a tackle trial during the upcoming season as rugby looks at its approach to concussion and reducing injuries.

This will see the definition of a high tackle in Championship matches being lowered from above the line of the shoulders to above the armpit line.

In recent times, several relatively younger players have been forced to retire due to injury which has put pressure on rugby’s bosses to look after the best interests of players who play on a weekly basis.

Former Wales back-row and captain Sam Warburton is a high profile player who called time on his career earlier this year at the age of 29.

Watson, who is currently sidelined with an Achilles injury, is doubtful whether the RFU’s tackle trial in the Championship will have the desired effect and he believes it could lead to an increase in concussions with players colliding into their opponents’ knees.

“You don’t want to see passive tackles,” he told the Mail on Sunday.

“I don’t think changing the nature of the game is the answer.

“What’s difficult is playing 25 plus games per year and you end up playing at 75 or 80 per cent. These things aren’t decided by the players but I’d have thought 20 games maximum is the right number.”

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Bristol’s record signing Charles Piutau is a major doubt for the start of the Premiership season after injuring his shoulder.

Piutau, who moved from Ulster to Bristol for a record Premiership transfer fee of £1million in August 2017, damaged his shoulder in Bristol’s 14-12 pre-season defeat to Ulster on Saturday.

It was Bristol’s final warm-up fixture before their Premiership campaign gets underway with the visit of Bath to Ashton Gate this coming Saturday.

Piutau had come on at half-time, only to leave the field ten minutes later with his arm in a sling. Bristol head coach Pat Lam, the man responsible for luring the 26-year-old to the ambitious club, tried to put a positive spin on things.

“Charles’ injury is unlucky, but that’s why you have to have a large squad. We will need everybody over the course of the season,” Lam told the Bristol Post.

“It’s obvious how big a blow it would be if Charles can’t play on Friday against Bath, but that’s rugby. I’ll be confident if Charles is there and in the team to face Bath, but if he’s not, the next guy steps in.

“We asked all the players to make life difficult for the coaches and we have got some serious selection headaches. The only way you win things is with a squad – it’s not about the individual, it’s about the team.

“Charles is getting his shoulder assessed and the medical team will go through everything, get the scans done, and when we know more, we’ll let everybody know. Injuries could easily happen to us next week or at any point.

“The last thing you want to do is put the players in cotton wool. They have to be ready, but at the same time freak incidents happen.”

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New Zealand have made two changes to their backline as Ngani Laumape and Jordie Barrett start against Australia at Eden Park on Saturday.

The side features the same starting forward pack from the team which beat Australia 38-13 in Sydney last weekend, while Ofa Tuungafasi comes back onto the reserves bench for Tim Perry.

There are two injury-enforced changes in the backline. With winger Rieko Ioane ruled out, Waisake Naholo comes across to the left wing, Ben Smith moves to the right wing and Barrett has been named at full-back, for his third Test start. In the midfield, Laumape comes in for Ryan Crotty.

“The team is fully aware that it has the opportunity to close out the Bledisloe Cup series on Saturday. In saying that, we know that there’ll be a massive response from Australia following their performance last week. Not only are we excited by this challenge, but we’re looking forward to responding ourselves with a better performance,” said All Blacks head coach Steve Hansen.

“Our preparation this week – both physically and mentally – has been all about getting ready to do that. We’ll be looking to execute to an even higher level and play at an intensity that will challenge ourselves and our opponent.”

Hansen has also paid tribute to Owen Franks.

“Whilst last week was a special occasion for Sammy Whitelock, this week it’s Owie’s turn to join that special club. He has started 90 of his 99 Tests to date, which is an incredible achievement for a tighthead prop, one of the most physically demanding positions on the footy field,” he said.

“His professionalism and dedication to improvement has been an inspiration to other All Blacks for quite some time now. We congratulate him and his family on such a wonderful achievement.”

Hansen also said the All Blacks were looking forward to playing at home in front of a sold-out Eden Park.

“It’s always a pleasure to play at such a great stadium and the team is always buoyed by the outstanding support.”

New Zealand: 15 Jordie Barrett, 14 Ben Smith, 13 Jack Goodhue, 12 Ngani Laumape, 11 Waisake Naholo, 10 Beauden Barrett, 9 Aaron Smith, 8 Kieran Read (c), 7 Sam Cane, 6 Liam Squire, 5 Samuel Whitelock, 4 Brodie Retallick, 3 Owen Franks, 2 Codie Taylor, 1 Joe Moody
Replacements: 16 Nathan Harris, 17 Karl Tu’inukuafe, 18 Ofa Tuungafasi, 19 Scott Barrett, 20 Ardie Savea, 21 TJ Perenara, 22 Damian McKenzie, 23 Anton Lienert-Brown

Date: Saturday, August 25
Venue: Eden Park, Auckland
Kick-off: 19:35 local (08:35 BST, 07:35 GMT)
Referee: Wayne Barnes (England)
Assistant referees: Jaco Peyper (South Africa), Luke Pearce (England)
TMO: Marius Jonker (South Africa)

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With the new Gallagher Premiership season less than one week away from kick-off, it’s time for us to preview each of the 12 competing teams.

BATH

Director of Rugby: Todd Blackadder
Last season: 6th

It’s been steady progress at the Rec since Todd Blackadder took over from Mike Ford but not quite the forward leaps you’d expect from a squad so talented and so financially backed.

The initial optimism always seems to exist around Bath but you always know, when it comes to crunch time, they have a lethargic battering within them against a fellow top side.

Wealthy owner Bruce Craig will not accept consistent floundering but Bath have done just that for three seasons since their final appearance back in 2015. They’ve often shown glimpses of the side that featured at Twickenham and it’s hardly surprising with the likes of Anthony Watson and Jonathan Joseph to call upon.

If the two internationals can get back to their best, Bath can begin to ignite thoughts of ending their long trophy less drought. Jamie Roberts and his large frame arrive to bulk up the midfield alongside Joseph whilst Will Chudley brings Premiership winning experience.

Elsewhere Blackadder needs to turn a good squad into a good XV; combinations are key but the Bath boss must decide who he fancies at 9 and 10. In the pack he has some of England’s most exciting prospects in Zach Mercer, Sam Underhill and Charlie Ewels. The task now is utilising their obvious potential and bridging the gap to the Exeters and Saracens of this world.

Player to watch: Last year Sam Underhill produced a debut performance at Franklin’s Gardens that had England fans licking their lips. His physicality, love for the tackle and never ending engine makes him a dream for anyone playing alongside him in the back-row.

Injuries and concussion issues deprived him of a full season at full flight but if Bath can get his engine revving, the former Osprey could help provide a platform and more which allows their affluent backs to play.

BRISTOL BEARS

Director of Rugby: Pat Lam
Last season: Promoted from the Championship

Rarely has a team been promoted from the Championship and arrived to the party ready to make waves. But rarely has a team been financially backed like this and never has a promoted side convinced a player like All Black Charles Piutau to join them on one of the highest salaries worldwide.

That’s before you take into account the arrival of Wallaby George Smith and John Afoa from Gloucester. If your final year position was determined by the individuals at your club then Bristol would be top four material. We all know that isn’t the case but being coached by Pat Lam makes it not beyond the realms of possibility.

Realism suggests a steady top half finish and Champions Cup rugby for 2019 will be a solid first season back in the Premiership. Bristol can’t and shouldn’t expect too much too soon, but owner Steve Lansdowne is committed to turning Bristol into one of Europe’s rugby capitals.

The facilities at Ashton Gate are such that the Premiership’s opening night will be held in the West Country. Bristol’s assets both on and off the field are a means to an end not an end in itself. The time it takes to reach that end goal will be a lot clearer come May 2019.

Player to watch: You don’t invest seven figures a year in a player and expect him not to light up the world; so anticipate Charles Piutau doing just that. Since leaving New Zealand his spells in England with Wasps and then Ulster have elevated his profile.

Widely regarded as arguably the best New Zealander not playing in his native land, Piutau has been utilised anywhere from shirt 11-15 and with destructive results. His power, pace, handling and reading of the game put him among the game’s elite.

He cannot win games on his own for Bristol, but he can come pretty darn close. Coupled with the influx of stars alongside him Piutau could comfortably spearhead a Bristol attack that makes them seem very at home despite a year in the Championship.

EXETER CHIEFS

Director of Rugby: Rob Baxter
Last season: 1st (runners-up)

It was a third visit to Twickenham in as many years but Exeter did relinquish their crown to Saracens in somewhat underwhelming fashion after yet another year of progress.

2018 was a new experience for the Chiefs, they had to play under the weight of expectation – not that you’d know it. They wore their crown with conviction and topped the table for most of the season.

A European scalp over Montpellier in France legitimised yet more forward progress; and although they didn’t get beyond the group stages they wrestled with the continent’s elite. European champions Leinster were perhaps given their sternest test by Exeter over the Christmas period to underline the Chiefs metal.

Domestically they continue to thrive and it was a case of Saracens being excellent rather than Exeter being poor which saw them lose the final. Rob Baxter has continued his transitioning of individuals throughout the year – both Simmonds brothers have become stalwarts at Sandy Park. That takes on further significance given the departure of legend Thomas Waldrom. Welshman Alex Cuthbert arrives from the Cardiff Blues whilst Santiago Cordero makes his stay a long term one.

Having reached the summit in 2017 Exeter’s progress chart is far harder to gage; the remit will no doubt be continued inroads on the European scene because right now Baxter and company seem to have the domestic scene sussed out. Win the Premiership they may not, but the systems put in place by this outfit suit them perfectly and rarely does execution let them down.

Player to watch: The breakout star, or one of at least, in last year’s Premiership was Joe Simmonds. The fly-half was gently transitioned in to replace Gareth Steenson and by the end of the year was owning the Chiefs 10 shirt. A match winning boot against Bath was an example of this youngster’s maturity and calmness under pressure.

He understands perfectly his role in this well-oiled machine and alongside brother Sam looks one for the future and Sandy Park.

GLOUCESTER

Director of Rugby: David Humphreys
Last season: 7th

South African ambience continues to swirl and embed itself into the Kingsholm corridors. Johan Ackermann proved he is no one trick pony after success with the Lions transferred into the most successful Gloucester season since 2013.

Seventh was perhaps an unfair reflection on a year which saw them in play-off contention for most of it and even sit in the top four until the turn of the year. Major scalps over both Saracens and Exeter highlight Gloucester’s new found confidence.

The dynamic between Ackermann and director of rugby David Humphreys hit off instantly with the South African’s more hands on approach. Jaco Kriel, Franco Mostert and Ruan Dreyer all arrive from Ellis Park whilst Matt Banahan swaps blue and white for cherry and white.

Danny Cipriani is the star attraction to arrive at Kingsholm this summer and his tempo will be a major weapon for Gloucester. A return to Europe’s top tier is long overdue but Gloucester have a coaching set-up and a squad to do more than just compete.

Player to watch: Eyes will be fixed on Danny Cipriani but it’s fellow summer recruit Jaco Kriel that could do some serious damage. Cipriani is a class act but it’s front foot quick ball that allows him to look his best. Kriel can be someone who provides just that.

His time with the Lions inevitably led to South African caps but injury has robbed him of a final season in Johannesburg. His fitness may be of slight concern but Ackermann knows how to get the best out of this back-row and when he is fit and firing he will challenge the league’s best in his position.

HARLEQUINS

Head of Rugby: Paul Gustard
Last season: 10th

It’s all change in the shadows of Twickenham; the Stoop welcomes a new man at the helm. John Kingston departed to little sorrow along with most of his coaching set-up; the man with the task of bettering a poor campaign is former Saracens and England defence coach Paul Gustard.

Taking the top role for the first time, if your wisdom is defined by those who imparted it to you then Gustard is a stellar choice. Mark McCall and Eddie Jones have tutored 42-year-old and winning environments have been a day-to-day theme.

He certainly has a job on his hands following a dismal 2018 thus far. The optimism though stems from the group of players he inherits. Underachieving is a tag easily slapped on the Stoop at present but Gustard will know the worth of Chris Robshaw, Danny Care, Kyle Sinckler and Mike Brown.

The young and energetic Marcus Smith remains a name on everyone’s lips and his apprentice status with England has him marked down as one for the future, but that future seems very present right now.

Player to watch: It’s a clean slate for plenty of the crop down at Quins but one man arriving with the cleanest of slates is new winger Nathan Earle. Crossing the circle of the M25 and heading down from St Albans, Earle will be keen to show his electric pace to the folk at the Stoop.

New coach Gustard will have worked with Earle during their time at Saracens. The 23-year-old is certainly raw but the talent is undeniable. Capped by England in an unofficial international he is certainly on the Jones radar and, despite England’s plethora of outstanding wide players, could well be knocking on that door very hard.

LEICESTER TIGERS

Head Coach: Matt O’Connor
Last season: 5th

No play-off rugby for the first time in what must seem like an eternity for the Tigers faithful last term. They don’t expect weekends off once the season closes but in 2017/18 they had to face that reality.

Disappointment must still loom around Welford Road following a season of promise that faded. Initial defeats to Bath and Northampton were put to bed by a six-game winning streak and Matt O’Connor’s side, buoyed by the return of George Ford at 10 and try marksman Jonny May, appeared the force of old.

Yet international time put pay to their star players and Leicester’s struggles began. Home defeats to Northampton and Newcastle ended their faint hopes of the top four. There’s no doubt that Leicester were anything but the sum of their parts and questions will seriously be asked if this group cannot find a winning formula this term.

The criticism is whether the Tigers were too affluent from shirts 9 to 15 but not powerful enough up front. Always renowned for such a ferocious scrum Leicester now look vulnerable. Guy Thompson crosses the divide to arrive from Wasps and David Denton comes in from Worcester. Not names to light up the world but solid and seasoned pros in the Premiership era; they could help bridge the gap that was far wider than Leicester would like to admit.

Player to watch: Your eyes are immediately drawn to the backs when you look at a Tigers XV with Ben Youngs, Ford, Toomua and May in full view. But it’s a man who does the unnoticed work that allows them to sparkle who deserves a mention. Sione Kalamafoni carried more than any other player in last year’s Premiership season, constantly giving Leicester a chance with go forward ball.

His performance at Twickenham especially thrust him into the limelight when Bath were downed in ‘The Clash’. The Tongan at times walked through the Bath defence like a one man wrecking ball determined to drag his side to victory.

NEWCASTLE FALCONS

Director of Rugby: Dean Richards
Last season: 4th

A repeat of last year will be the request on Tyneside. Vereniki Goneva’s Alan Shearer like celebration at St James’ Park last year showed that the Toon are taking to a sport other than football; and the popularity of the one off stadium move legitimised their popularity.

Billed by some as relegation candidates in September and by May they had upset the order. A disappointing semi-final defeat to Exeter didn’t serve as a fair reflection on a stellar season.

Goneva picked up the Premiership Player of the Year award whilst Josh Matevesi and Sinoti Sinoti enjoyed breakthrough seasons. Under Dean Richards Newcastle found a formula that worked; the task now is doing it again.

Unassuming yet efficient with a touch of class would sum up Newcastle in 2017/18. They won’t be so unassuming this term and heightened expectations burden some people’s shoulders. Richards though, with an illustrious CV, will be up to the task.

Player to watch: There’s a few at Kingston Park and the Falcons will consider it a victory that they all want to stick around for what’s next. Vereniki Goneva received plenty of plaudits but Sinoti Sinoti came into his own as the season continued. The Samoan winger didn’t match the figures of his fellow Pacific Islander but was equally effective coming off the alternative wing.

NORTHAMPTON

Director of Rugby: Chris Boyd
Last season: 9th

Northampton have gone from chalk to cheese in hiring Chris Boyd to fill Jim Mallinder’s post. Mallinder’s approach had yielded much success but the past few seasons have had the Saints in steady decline.

Boyd has done nothing but elevate a Hurricanes side in New Zealand that possessed talent without ever legitimising it. A Super Rugby title in 2016 ended their wait and Boyd did so by playing an exciting brand of rugby and blooding in young talent.

Franklin’s Gardens will hope the same occurs once he fully embeds himself from Wellington. Players will no doubt have to adapt to a more free flowing style with handling and dexterity a must. It’s hard to believe it will happen overnight given the nightmare endured last term but the foundations exist.

Dylan Hartley remains an immense leader, Courtney Lawes was a rare bright light, Dan Biggar brings stellar experience and it was in New Zealand that Piers Francis first caught the eye. Boyd will have to manage expectations as much as his squad during his first 12 months but his CV suggests glory could well be on the horizon again.

Player to watch: Playing for the Blues in Auckland earned Piers Francis England caps and convinced Northampton to bring him to the Premiership. Perhaps a victim of his own versatility but Francis has the skillset to succeed in a Kiwi environment. Don’t be surprised if Boyd pinpoints the utility back as pivotal to his plans moving forward and allows him a more settled position, whether that be at 10, 12 or 13.

SALE SHARKS

Director of Rugby: Steve Diamond
Last season: 8th

Frustratingly for folk at the AJ Bell Sale had their destiny in their own hands after a late Marland Yarde try saw them beat Wasps in the season’s final stretch, but defeats followed to Leicester and Newcastle which put an end to any post season involvement.

There’s no denying though this Sale outfit are improving year on year and their off season recruitment suggests their upward trajectory is set to continue. Chris Ashton splashes in from Toulon – following his suspension of course – with hopes of England recognition once again whilst Rohan Janse van Rensburg arrives from South Africa.

They will feature alongside Denny Solomona, Faf de Klerk, James O’Connor, AJ MacGinty and, well, you get the picture. The only question mark is whether their forward pack can offer the platform. Sale possess several fast improving individuals in that area but they appear perhaps a little back heavy.

Their home form will again be key but with the arrival of seasoned individuals Sale are acquiring big match experience, the kind of experience that Steve Diamond hopes will turn them from possibles to probables when it hits crunch time come May.

Player to watch: An impressive first season from Faf de Klerk saw him feature for South Africa this summer and, at times, he made a mockery of his slight frame, running England ragged.

Among the best scrum-halves in the country, De Klerk will be behind everything good Sale do this year and, even with the talent outside him, he is the main man for the Sharks.

SARACENS

Director of Rugby: Mark McCall
Last season: 2nd (Champions)

They might have sacrificed their European title but they wrestled back their domestic crown from an Exeter side who toppled them last year. Despite experiencing their worst run of form in the professional era during the autumn, Saracens proved their champion mentality by bouncing back and standing up during the big moments.

Their performance in the final at Twickenham made an excellent Exeter look average. Game management, clinical, adaptable and cynical when necessary; Saracens are England’s outstanding team and deserving of the crown.

The hunger doesn’t seem to have dwindled and the task this year will be repeating the double of two years ago. Hard to back against them when they boast so many international players, and this year they arrive far fresher than they did post Lions last term.

Owen Farrell continues to lead by example and the same could be said for the likes of Maro Itoje, Jamie George and Brad Barritt. The effervescent Schalk Brits finally called time on his playing days but his wisdom has well and truly been imparted to a group already accustomed to winning at such a young age.

Player to watch: Owen Farrell may be the name everyone knows but his understudy and now frequent inside centre Alex Lozowski continues to improve. His talents are such that Mark McCall found ways to accommodate the former Wasp into his line-up throughout the season.

As is the fashion nowadays, two 10s allows for a greater read on the game and Lozowski’s running lines have proved his versatility. His try against Wasps in the semi-final portrayed a man oozing passion, prowess and finesse. Usurping Farrell is close to an impossible task but you can’t deny any individual that good.

WASPS

Director of Rugby: Dai Young
Last season: 3rd

Wasps’ season in 2017/18 ultimately ended where it deserved to end: good but not quite good enough would be the assessment. A semi-final mauling to Saracens broadcasted the gap that still needs filling by the Coventry-based outfit.

An early-season blip left Dai Young’s side in recovery for much of the season but the amount of talent they possess always gave them the chance to bounce back. Willie le Roux especially shone, earning him a return to the South African side that beat England this summer.

Danny Cipriani’s form also earned him a call-up, but he and fellow international James Haskell were among some big names to depart the Ricoh following the end of their contracts. Wasps have gambled, it’s out with the English and in with the Kiwis, albeit one whom is converting to England.

Lima Sopoaga and Brad Shields arrive from New Zealand franchises in what look to be smart moves by the hierarchy, even if they did have to part with some talented individuals. Shields especially adds some serious talent to a forward pack sometimes unable to match the class in the backs division.

Both he and Sopoaga look able to seamlessly slot into Wasps’ free-flowing brand of rugby and the Ricoh is sure to be one of the more entertaining venues in the country. Wasps have had several years trying to slot the final jigsaw pieces together without success and after three straight play-off involvements the questions remains whether they can finally hit the summit.

Player to watch: Brad Shields arrives with big expectations but Lima Sopoaga does likewise, and has the boots of Cipriani to fill. The fly-half was sensational for much of last season and Wasps have gambled on the former Highlander exceeding those levels. Resigned to playing back-up to Beauden Barrett, Sopoaga has sacrificed All Black representation to prove he is among the globe’s elite 10s.

Much the same to predecessor Cipriani; Sopoaga plays with tempo, allows his outside backs like Christian Wade to cut excellent running lines and is mercurial. His goal-kicking percentage has always been a strength should he assume those duties from Jimmy Gopperth.

WORCESTER

Director of Rugby: Alan Solomons
Last season: 11th

It depends what Worcester side you get; the group who finished the season look ready to consolidate Premiership status with a mid-table finish, but the group who began the first seven rounds will be Championship bound.

There’s every reason to think that the momentum gained towards the latter end of last season will transition through the summer and into this campaign. Alan Solomons found a formula that worked and the emergence of Josh Adams was a huge plus in a season of forward momentum.

Ben Te’o continued to prove his worth in the midfield whilst Bryce Heem and Chris Pennell came up with valuable tries at big moments.

This Warriors outfit certainly has the aura of a team of the up, although Bristol’s arrival and heavy investment will once again make them among the favourites for the drop. That won’t rock them though and last year’s slow start will stand them in good stead should a repeat happen again.

Player to watch: Injury kept Francois Hougaard sidelined for a good chunk of last season but when Worcester experienced an upturn in form he was present: Diminutive in size but monstrous in influence.

The former South African 7s player has buckets of pace, an excellent eye to spot the gap or have a go himself. He signed for a further three years midway through last year and the Warriors will be thrilled he has decided to stick at Sixways.

Compatriot Francois Venter is also worth keeping an eye out for as he adds his bulk to Worcester this year. The former Cheetah has had a year of playing northern hemisphere rugby after his exploits in the PRO14 last year.

by Sam Meade

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Castres got their Top 14 campaign off to a fine start when they claimed a hard-fought 25-20 win over Montpellier at the Altrad Stadium on Sunday.

In a repeat of last season’s final, the champions showed that that triumph was no fluke as they dominated for large periods and eventually outscored their hosts by three tries to two with Scott Spedding crossing for a brace.

Spedding was Castres’ hero as apart from his two tries, he also made a try-saving tackle on Vincent Martin in the game’s closing stages which helped his side to secure the result.

Montpellier opened the scoring in the seventh minute courtesy of a penalty from their new signing Johan Goosen but Castres drew level five minutes later when Benjamin Urdapilleta added a three-pointer off the kicking tee.

The home side dominated for the next 10 minutes and were rewarded midway through the half when Martin Devergie powered his way over the try-line from a line-out drive deep inside Castres’ 22.

Goosen added the extras to give his side a 10-3 lead before Urdapilleta reduced the deficit to four points when he landed his second penalty in the 28th minute.

Another Goosen penalty meant the home side led 13-6 by the half-hour mark but Castres struck back shortly afterwards when Spedding crossed for a deserved try after a strong run from Alex Tulou in the build-up.

Urdapilleta slotted the conversion which meant the teams were level at 13-13 when they changed sides at the interval.

The second half started brightly for Castres and four minutes after the restart their captain, Rodrigo Capo Ortega, went over for their second try after brilliant work from Spedding in the build-up.

And in the 51st minute, Castres extended their lead when Spedding crossed for his second try. This, after Martin Laveau did well with a powerful run inside Montpellier’s 22 and when his progress was halted, the ball was recycled quickly before Julien Dumora offloaded to the former Clermont full-back, who rounded off in the corner.

That was the last time Castres would score points as Montpellier upped the ante on attack in a bid to regain the initiative.

After several attacks, the home side eventually made a breakthrough when Paul Willemse dotted down from close quarters in the 63rd minute and Goosen’s conversion meant Castres now held a narrow 25-20 lead.

In the 73rd minute, the visitors were reduced to 14 men when Camille Gerondeau was yellow carded for playing the ball from an offside position at a ruck deep inside his half.

Montpellier finished stronger and thought they had drawn level in the 79th minute when Martin dotted down in the right-hand corner. But his effort was disallowed when television replays revealed he put a foot in touch after a desperate cover tackle from Spedding at the corner flag.

That was a crucial moment in the bigger scheme of things and helped seal a deserved win for the champions.

The scorers:

For Montpellier:
Tries: Devergie, Willemse
Cons: Goosen 2
Pens: Goosen 2

For Castres:
Tries: Spedding 2, Capo Ortega
Cons: Urdapilleta 2
Pens: Urdapilleta 2
Yellow Card: Gerondeau

Montpellier: 15 Johan Goosen, 14 Vincent Martin, 13 Yvan Reilhac, 12 François Steyn, 11 Gabriel Ngandebe, 10 Aaron Cruden, 9 Ruan Pienaar, 8 Martin Devergie, 7 Wiaan Liebenberg (c), 6 Julien Bardy, 5 Paul Willemse, 4 Julien Le Devedec, 3 Jannie Du Plessis, 2 Bismarck Du Plessis, 1 Grégory Fichten
Replacements: 16 Vincent Giudicelli, 17 Yvan Watremez, 18 Konstantine Mikautadze, 19 Kevin Kornath, 20 Julien Tomas, 21 Arthur Vincent, 22 Henry Immelman, 23 Antoine Guillamon

Castres: 15 Scott Spedding, 14 Martin Laveau, 13 Robert Ebersohn, 12 Yann David, 11 Taylor Paris, 10 Benjamin Urdapilleta, 9 Ludovic Radosavljevic, 8 Alex Tulou, 7 Camille Gerondeau, 6 Baptiste Delaporte, 5 Rodrigo Capo Ortega (c), 4 Christophe Samson, 3 Daniel Kotze, 2 Kevin Firmin, 1 Antoine Tichit
Replacements: 16 Marc-Antoine Rallier, 17 Tudor Stroe, 18 Victor Moreaux, 19 Steve Mafi, 20 Yohan Domenech, 21 Julien Dumora, 22 Thomas Combezou, 23 Marc Clerc

Referee: Mathieu Raynal
Assistant referees: Adrien Descottes, Jean-Claude Labarbe
TMO: Mourad Zitouni

Photo credit: Official Castres website

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