By scoring a fine try on his first opportunity, the Rochelais gave the feeling of being able to surprise their opponents given favorites before this disputed European Cup final, Saturday May 28, 2021, at the Vélodrome stadium in Marseille.
The clock then indicated the 10th minute and the South African winger Raymond Rhule concluded a fine movement from the back lines of La Rochelle on an initiative of the young scrum-half Thomas Berjon.
With the transformation of Ihaia West, the Rochelais even took the lead (6-7).
The Irish points had been scored on two successful penalties by Johnny Sexton, still faithful to the position of number 10 at 36 years old.
And the Irish opener showed new great precision during this meeting during which he scored xx points, achieving a 100% in his attempts.
Carried by a public mainly in their favor, the Rochelais continued to occupy the opposing camp and to be threatening, without however managing to register to score new points.
The Irish showed themselves to be more pragmatic, scoring two more penalties to return to the locker room with a 5-point advantage (12-7)
Three La Rochelle trials
Leinster retained the same control as soon as the match resumed, taking advantage of the many fouls from La Rochelle to widen the gap, leading 18-10 in the 52nd minute.
Their strategy was paying off and seemed to be able to allow them to win a fifth European star.
The Rochelais have decided otherwise.
They continued to be very enterprising and managed to physically dominate their opponents.
Their efforts paid off in the 60th minute with a try scored following a good touch found in the Irish camp.
Returning to 17-18, they knew they could beat the Irish ogre.
Their mission was further complicated with the temporary exclusion of their second line Thomas Laveau and a penalty scored by the replacement for Jonny Sexton (17-21).
The fight was fierce over the final ten minutes, with the Irish valiantly defending their try line.
But after a long series of scrums and rucks, Arthur Retière managed to infiltrate and extend his arm to score his team's third try.
Isaia West ensured the transformation on the final whistle, also signing a brilliant 100% on foot.
After losing two finals last season, La Rochelle did not miss their chance this time, becoming the 4th French club to win this prestigious European competition.
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