The French champions, lacking in desire and aggressiveness, suffered a setback against La Rochelle. As the final phase approaches quickly, these inconsistent performances fuel concern.
Two defeats in three Top 14 matches, Stade Toulousain has been on a downward trajectory in recent weeks. Since their elimination in the Champions Cup quarterfinals in mid-April (defeat 30-15 against UBB), the reigning triple French champions have struggled to refocus. Perhaps it is due to a comfortable lead in the league for direct qualification to the semi-finals.
On and off form, Ugo Mola’s men alternate between reaction and relapse. A success against Castres to digest the disappointment from Europe. A defeat at home against Clermont. A convincing victory (27-51) at Stade Velodrome against Toulon to make amends. A section of aggressiveness and desire inflicted by Stade Rochelais last Sunday (38-10).
The direct qualification has not yet been secured
As a first consequence, this coveted direct qualification has not been secured yet. With a 9-point lead over 3rd placed team Pau, with two matches remaining in the regular season, one more point is needed to avoid the playoffs. With upcoming matches against LOU in two weeks and a final away game in Nanterre against Racing 92, Toulousains would do well to secure the necessary points promptly.
But beyond the numbers, it is in the context of the playoffs that Dupont and his partners should rethink their approach. By resting on their laurels, not meeting the required level of aggressiveness, intensity, and precision, they risk losing their way and damaging their confidence. After the defeat without resilience against Rochelais, Ugo Mola acknowledged the situation. “It’s a bit disappointing to see this level of commitment. Showing this face upsets me.”
“The problem is taking one or two steps forward, being happy, then, the next weekend, falling back into our old habits.” – Matthis Lebel
And the Stade Toulousain manager becomes more critical. “If, in the press conference (before the match, Editor’s note), some mentioned character and mindset, they were unfortunately absent, or at least not up to the level to compete with a team playing a decisive match. It is clear that we are lacking in that regard.” Engaging poorly (6 lost rucks) and imprecise in the game (16 balls lost in attack), his players were never able to halt the Rochelais’ determination.
