Clermont-Ferrand (AFP)
For his return to the European Cup after a year of absence, Clermont has obtained a precious success against the Harlequins, with an offensive festival with very Fijian accents (53-21) Saturday.
In a stadium Marcel-Michelin full like an egg, the men of Franck Azéma took the lead of the group 3 with authority, thanks to this net success and without burr and punctuated by 7 tests.
Winner of the European Challenge last year, Clermont has found the Champions Cup by showing his ambitions from the first day.
With the return of his many internationals, Clermont was able to count on a Peceli Yato of the great days and author of two trials in the first period, as well as a Camille Lopez author of some pretty passes at the foot.
Melee domineering, the ASM built its success in the first period, making the difference in just over 20 minutes (22-0 in the 23rd minute).
Facing a team of Harlequins player but limited in all sectors, the Clermont assured the offensive bonus from the beginning of the second act with a 4th try signed Isaia Toeava (32-7, 45th).
With a tough trip next week in Ulster, the Jaunards were then entertained to feast their audience, with three new trials by Alivereti Raka (author of a 1-2), George Moala and Mike Tadjer.
The only downside in a near perfect score, Clermont have conceded three tries and will have to work their defense for the rest of the competition. But they resisted the onslaught of English who believed until the end to return from Auvergne with an offensive bonus.
With this first success improved, Clermont is leading the Pool 3 with 5 points, one point ahead of Ulster, winner of Bath (17-16). The Auvergnats will move Friday at the Irish for the shock of the second day.
The Harlequins and Bath will already play their survival in an Anglo-English duel.
© 2019 AFP