Nanterre (AFP)

Two months after their infuriating defeat in the final, Racing 92 returned to the European Rugby Cup in an enhanced victory against Connacht (26-22) but got scared at the end of the match after missing out. 'efficiency.

Like Toulouse, Clermont and Lyon, its French rivals in Pool B of a revamped formula, and like Exeter, Racing has launched this European campaign well by taking the offensive bonus.

He will have to win at the Harlequins in a week to stay in the race for the quarterfinals.

In the closed camera of the Arena, which prevented the Parisian drizzle from falling on the synthetic turf but allowed to hear the violent shocks between players, the Sky and the Whites took control, all in power, by the pillar Georges- Henri Colombe (7-0, 6th).

Back from a concussion protocol, Iribaren initiated the action of the 2nd try, his candle allowing Virimi Vakatawa to be launched for his first show.

Tackled, the French international got rid of his opponent to overflow and serve Kurtley Beale (14-3, 17th).

For the third, it was Finn Russell, back from injury, who took the initiative with a superb long jump pass for Vakatawa, who offered his 2nd assist for a spectacular try from Donovan Taofifenua, tackled on the post. corner (19-3, 24th).

Just before half-time, the Irish reacted.

First by Ultan Dillane, who had the test done but was taken over at the last minute by Iribaren.

Then, receiving a long cross at the foot of the opener Jack Carty, Matt Healy took over Teddy Thomas to logically validate their highlight (19-8, half-time).

It was a symptomatic test of the moments of wandering of the Ile-de-France, as in the second half when captain Henry Chavancy saw his pass intercepted by Alex Wootton who was then able to cross the whole field (26-15, 62nd).

The offensive bonus has indeed been acquired, not by Vakatawa who saw his attempt canceled for a forward, but by Dominic Bird (26-8, 52nd).

And Racing was scared to the end in a match that it had well in hand.

Just after another try canceled because of a forward -flagrant- Thomas, Connacht came to register a third try by Conor Oliver (26-22, 75th) and maintained the pressure until the end.

Racing will have to raise the slider to get on the quarters train.

© 2020 AFP