Fabien Berneau, the Colomiers forwards coach, explains the reasons for the good form of the columérin pack in recent weeks. He also projects himself on the match tonight, fearing the mobile profile of Grenoble.
The performance of the columerin pack has been very good in recent weeks, against reputable packs. How do you analyze this good form?
It is true that it was. Especially defensively, we are quite efficient. But it’s a whole, it’s the collective. If the forwards are efficient, it is thanks to the three-quarters who place them and circulate quickly. At least it’s more clear to them. The players are also aware that we are coming to the home stretch. Then you have to be efficient on the conquest but not only. There is also the general movement, the defense…
The more successful you were in scrum and ball defense, the more the results smiled on you. Should there be a link?
We try to stay on a positive dynamic. The players are autonomous on this. They work on the strategies themselves, we define them in relation to the adversary. So far it is responding favorably. Regarding the closed scrum, the players work well with Alexandre Castola. They adhere, are in the dynamics of his project, the commandments, and the strategies that must be adopted. And that is reflected on the field. When we talk about conquest, it’s the scrum, the touch but not only. There are also dismissals and exits from the camp that make it possible to get out of it.
Finally, was it the time to adapt to a new method that you needed?
We discovered a new melee player so we have to adapt to new strategies, new commands, and gradually get our bearings. During the winter period, the scrum is more visible, the players are much more in demand. But they are invested. They have an exemplary state of mind. If they perform, it’s because they are listening and are in the spirit that we are trying to instil.
Unlike your last opponents, FC Grenoble has a less frontal profile. How do you approach them?
We approach them with the utmost seriousness because it is a team that has developed, which has matured since we played there (15-22, on October 29). The Grenoble residents have grown in their rugby but also in their values, whether combat or mobility. The FCG found themselves in a mobile rugby made of passes, speed and depth and for the moment they have succeeded. They went to get results outside. I am thinking of Vannes, Bayonne or last weekend against Nevers. They are big teams and the FCG responded every time.
Seven days before the end and in the midst of tough competition, is the pressure of the home result all the greater?
Obviously, because we know that from 4th to 8th place, it’s very close. There are seven games left that can give 35 to 40 points potentially. You have to be aware that it can go very quickly. We have a small advantage: we ate our black bread during a period of the season and we receive more at the end of the season. But you have to be vigilant about it and not fall asleep.
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