Toulouse. Top 14: all the lights are green for Stade Toulousain

Like a symbol. Even if it is to be put into perspective since the calendar is not up to date, the first place of the Top 14 arrived to remind that the Stade Toulousain is the last reigning French champion and that it proved to be more and more equipped for succeed himself. Many elements – except of course the quality of the current game – are there to support our thesis. Starting with the innovative element of recent seasons: the Covid which has so far spared Stade Toulousain except during the friendly match against Montpellier (canceled match). This is not neutral because at the moment, the red and black club do not have any late games and do not see the rest of the season as a big traffic jam. The postponement of the next two days of the European Cup and the advance of the 19th day to January 23 even offer him a doubling less since the 19th day was scheduled at the same time as the last match of the Tournament, France – Wales .

In this regard, the Toulousains should suffer less from this period of doubloons than during the autumn period since they are now reduced to the number of… 1 (Stade – Pau with Ireland – France, February 13). With one reservation, however: how will the EPCR organize its end of the European Cup?

The other parameter which makes it possible to welcome positive signals is the absence of injuries in significant quantities. In recent weeks, the Stadium has gradually recovered many players on the flank and, supreme luxury, did not have to rush their returns. For example, Cheslin Kolbe and Jerome Kaino were able to heal themselves quietly and their absences did not affect the club’s sporting results. The Stadium was even able to prepare François Cros called up for the French team when he did not even replay with his club… In other times, such a situation could have been subject to conflict. But currently, the Stadium is above controversy. He’s just… above.