La Rochelle 35-18 Stade Français : Top 14 2024-2025

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Post on Nov 03, 2024

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La Rochelle Dominate Stade Français in Top 14 Opener

The 2024-2025 Top 14 season kicked off with a bang as reigning champions La Rochelle delivered a resounding 35-18 victory over Stade Français at Stade Marcel-Deflandre. The match showcased the defending champions' strength and intent, while Stade Français struggled to find their rhythm.

La Rochelle's Dominance

From the outset, La Rochelle asserted their dominance. Their powerful pack and dynamic backline overwhelmed Stade Français, scoring tries through Gregory Alldritt, Jules Favre, and Raymond Rhule. The home side's relentless pressure and impressive ball-handling skills proved too much for the Parisian outfit to handle.

Key Highlights:

• Alldritt's try: The back-rower's powerful run and offload set the tone for the match, demonstrating La Rochelle's physicality and attacking prowess.
• Favre's clinical finish: The winger's try showcased La Rochelle's ability to capitalize on their opponents' mistakes and exploit space.
• Rhule's blistering pace: The South African wing's try was a testament to La Rochelle's speed and agility, leaving Stade Français defenders trailing.

Stade Français Struggles

Despite the presence of experienced players like Waisea Nayacalevu and Morgan Parra, Stade Français failed to establish a foothold in the game. Their attacking efforts were often thwarted by La Rochelle's resolute defense, and their scrum struggled to gain dominance.

Key Points:

• Lack of cohesion: Stade Français' performance lacked cohesion and fluidity, with communication breakdowns hindering their attacking moves.
• Scrum struggles: The Parisian scrum was consistently overpowered by their opponents, allowing La Rochelle to gain territory and control possession.
• Defensive lapses: Stade Français' defensive structure was vulnerable, particularly in the second half, allowing La Rochelle to score easily.

Looking Ahead

La Rochelle's convincing victory in the season opener serves as a statement of their intent to defend their Top 14 title. Their impressive performance suggests that they will be a formidable force this season.

On the other hand, Stade Français have much work to do to improve their performance. The team needs to address their lack of cohesion and defensive vulnerabilities if they are to compete with the Top 14's elite.

This opening weekend clash has set the stage for an exciting and unpredictable Top 14 season, with La Rochelle emerging as early favorites.