The stake of the match: to break the dynamics of the USAP … and to consolidate that of the FCG
This season, only four teams have managed to beat Perpignan, and only one in 2021 (Montauban, 23-25). The Catalans are advancing at a champion’s pace, like their last block: five wins out of five, even with matches not always mastered. The people of Grenoble will first have to get down to breaking down this spiral of confidence that carries the Blood and Gold.
But they also have arguments to make. And their own dynamic: two improved victories against Colomiers (32-16) then at Mont-de-Marsan (38-10) which brought them to 6th place in the standings. A barrage position that they will seek to consolidate, playing a day before the duel Nevers (7th) – Montauban (8th).
–
A man to watch: Tanginoa Halaifonua
In a starting XV that looks like the team that the FCG could field in the final stages, he is the only real surprise. Tanginoa Halaifonua will be established in the second row due to the combined absences of Demotte, Gayraud, Ostrikov and Madeira, specialists in the position. Not really a problem for the former LOU, who has already repaired in n ° 5 this season. Above all, the Tongan has displayed in recent weeks a power that has hurt all opponents of the Grenoblois. His team with Leva Fifita will weigh heavily in the pack fight.
–
Direct confrontations: the USAP advantage
Perpignan is one of the rare Pro D2 teams which have a positive record against FCG. In sixteen direct confrontations since 2003, the Sang et Or have won 11 times, including two at the Stade des Alpes: 17-16 in November 2004 and 24-17 in January 2018, five months before the Pro D2 final won in Toulouse against the Isérois (38-13). The Catalans also dominated the first leg at Aimé-Giral (26-18, October 10, 2020).
–
–
The key to the match: breaking the Catalan defensive lock
Best attack in the championship (534 points), the USAP is also the most airtight defense of Pro D2 (352 points). The Sang et Or therefore know how to reduce their opponents to the minimum portion, like the three meager points registered in Aimé-Giral by Provence Rugby (42-3) before the truce. But the FCG has serious offensive arguments: in its rear trident (Nagusa-Capuozzo-Masilevu) but also by the capacity of its pack, for three months, to generate tries. It is up to the Red and Blue to maintain this strike force to blow up the Catalan defensive lock.
–
The number: 35
The number of points gained in 2021 by Grenoble (8 wins, 2 losses; 3 offensive bonuses) as by Perpignan (8 wins, 1 loss; 3 bonuses, including 1 defensive) but also Vannes (7 wins, 1 draw, 1 loss; 5 bonuses, including 1 defensive). Isérois like Catalans are fueled by super in the second part of the season.
–
The statement
“Perpignan doesn’t have a lot of flaws. It’s a very strong team, very difficult to maneuver. We expect a big challenge on Thursday. But we can’t wait to be there. We are entering the home stretch of the season, the beautiful days are coming. We’re only going to meet big teams until the end, it’s very exciting. »From Clément Ancely, 3rd row of FC Grenoble, back as holder.
>> Pro D2 results, standings and schedule
–
