Until then, the Stuart Lancaster method, based on rigor and significant turnover in the squad, seemed to have proven itself. Under the orders of its new English manager, Racing 92 placed itself at the top of the Top 14 after nine days (6 wins, 3 defeats). We saw the Ciel et Blanc with an iron defense, not giving up a single match (at least one bonus on each trip) and winning a knife-edge derby in the rain (13-9 against Stade Français). In short, the complete opposite of the irregularities of previous seasons.
And then woes. For its entry into the Champions Cup last weekend, we saw the Racing 92 from before, capable of flashes of genius in attack but also too lax in defense. This first match against the London Harlequins was also in its scenario a carbon copy of that of last year (30-29 victory) at Paris La Défense Arena, except that the Racingmen have it this time narrowly lost (28-31 defeat).
Simple accident? The Racing version of Lancaster has the opportunity to redress the situation after this first hitch this Saturday (9 p.m., live on BeIN Sport) against the tough Irish from the province of Ulster.
With Fickou, Kolisi and Arundell
Ideal for the teammates of Siya Kolisi and Gaël Fickou to show that they have regained all their rigor and their character. The two stars, the double world champion captain of the South Africans and the leader of the defense of the French XV, have a lot to prove after a lackluster performance at Paris la Défense Arena. They will start again this Saturday in Belfast.
Just like the English winger Henry Arundell – who has just extended until 2026 with the Hauts-de-Seine club, thus giving up on the XV de la Rose – who will also be able to redeem himself from a match without lightning on Sunday last. Stuart Lancaster also rotated his squad a little less than usual. To give those who lost last weekend a chance to catch up?
“This match against Harlequins does not meet our standards and we can have a lot of regrets, recognizes Wenceslas Lauret, third row of Racing 92, reappointed for this match as number 8. Now, we will have to go to Ulster , who is in the same configuration as us after his defeat against Bath, and we will have to win to stay alive. » And confirm the revival of Racing.
The composition of Racing 92
Spring – Imhoff, Chavancy, Fickou, Arundell – Gibert (o), Le Garrec (m) – Woki, Lauret, Kolisi – Chouzenoux, Rowlands – Kolingar, Tarrit, Nyakane.
Remplaçants : Ben Arous, Gogichashvili, Kharaishvili, Sanconnie, Diallo, Baudonne, Tedder, Tabuavou.
