Top 14: for Montpellier, a conquest, a defense and a final

>> Top 14: Stade français imposes its law on La Rochelle and advances to the semi-finals

>> Top 14: Billy Vunipola, the strong man of Montpellier

MHR second row Florian Verhaeghe catches a throw into touch during Montpellier’s 25-15 victory against Stade français in the Top 14 semi-final on June 20 at the Stade Vélodrome in Marseille.

Photo : AFP/VNA/CVN

The key to Montpellier’s success lies in its ability to muzzle the Parisian attack. The Pink Soldiers, who averaged 34 points per game this season, only scored 15. A striking contrast which illustrates the mastery of the Héraultais.

Manager Joan Caudullo had not forgotten the heavy defeat suffered at Jean-Bouin last October (35-12). His players responded in the best way by making the task extremely difficult for the Parisians. Few penalties conceded, aggressive defense and great discipline prevented Stade Français from developing its game.

A decisive honey

The only real alert came at 67^e minute. After an error from Enzo Forletta, Joe Marchant seemed to be heading towards the try. But Donovan Taofifenua made a decisive comeback while Montpellier led 22-15. A converted try would have allowed the Parisians to come back to the level with less than a quarter of an hour to go.

This action symbolizes Montpellier’s determination. Because over the course of the meeting, the Hérault pack gradually gained the upper hand. After a balanced first period, the Parisian scrum suffered against the power of replacements Enzo Forletta and Wilfrid Hounkpatin. Between the 43^e and the 77^e minute, the Stade français has been sanctioned on several occasions in this sector, although it is considered one of its strong points.

The absence of Georgian pillar Giorgi Melikidze, injured during the play-off against La Rochelle, undoubtedly had its impact. The Parisian difficulties also manifested themselves on the touchlines, where several balls were lost under pressure from Florian Verhaeghe.

For two weeks, Montpellier had prepared for this physical battle. The game plan consisted of preventing Stade Français from finding the solutions which had allowed it to dominate La Rochelle in the previous round. Mission accomplished: the Héraultais imposed a real standoff and never let their opponent gain confidence.

Captain Lenni Nouchi and his teammates thus locked down all Parisian initiatives. They will now have to reproduce this performance in the final against Toulouse, the impressive winner of Racing 92 (71-18) the day before.

AFP/VNA/CVN