Bayonne (AFP)
The Aviron Bayonnais, outnumbered during a half-time, signed a tour de force by overturning the Stade Rochelais (23-22), Saturday at home, on behalf of the fifth day of Top 14.
Led 0-12 and reduced to 14 following the expulsion of their pillar Census Johnston in the 40th minute of play, the Basques nibbled their gap to sign their third win in five games.
This is the story of two reversals. First, that of the powerful Rochelais, who rolled on their opponents. The beginning of the match was one way. Timani (9th) and Favre (18th) found themselves at the conclusion of the undivided domination of the Yellow and Black (0-12). Without a chronic clumsiness (eight in forwards in the first half), the score could have been much heavier.
This is where the turn of the game comes in. A few minutes after the reduction of the gap, in force, by Luamanu (7-12, 35th), Rowing was reduced to 14 (40th). The Samoan right pillar Census Johnston did not control his gesture and knocked Tawera Kerr-Barlow up. Red card.
Far from falling apart, the Bayonnais added three points before half-time (10-12). Better, they took over after the locker room. The Rochelais have not seen the ball and accumulated mistakes.
After a penalty of Barthélémy (50th), the rowing passed for the first time (13-12), and even signed 20 points after the completion of Alofa Alofa against his former club (20-12) .
After a penalty on either side, Retière was able to maintain the visitors' hopes by scoring a corner test (23-22, 76th). But under the eyes of the Rochelais coach Ronan O'Gara, Bayonnais confiscated the last balloons until the final whistle.
In the standings, with 13 points, the promoted Bayonnais are fourth. Defeated for the third time and seventh (9 pts), La Rochelle will be satisfied with his first defensive bonus of the season.
© 2019 AFP