USAP’s Strategic Changes Ahead of the Match Against La Rochelle
The composition of the USAP rugby team, set to take on La Rochelle at the Marcel-Deflandre stadium on Saturday, May 31, at 16:30, has been officially unveiled. This announcement comes after a challenging match against Clermont, where USAP faced a significant setback, losing 31-13. In an effort to rebound from this defeat, the Catalan coaching staff has implemented seven crucial changes to the starting XV, signaling a strategic approach to their forthcoming encounter.
One of the most notable adjustments is the complete overhaul of the front row . The left prop, Giorgi Tetrashvili , will take on a starting role, while the right prop, Kieran Brookes , returns from a recent concussion. However, the standout change occurs at hooker, where Mathys Lotrian , just 21 years old and weighing in at 110 kg, will make his Top 14 debut. This decision comes as a result of the injuries to Ignacio Ruiz and Victor Montgaillard, both sidelined and unable to contribute to the team’s efforts.
The return of Adrien Warion and Max Hicks further reshapes the lineup, leading to a reorganized back row. Notably, Jacobus van Tonder will move to the number 6 position, with Patrick Sobela shifting to number 8—a position he hasn’t started in since November 5, 2022, when he played against Lyon.
On the backline, the return of Tom Ecochard to the scrum half position is a welcomed boost for the team. Ecochard had been absent for two months due to a shoulder fracture suffered during a match in Vannes. Tavite Veredamu is also back on the wing, leading to a reshuffle that sees Lucas Dubois move to the left wing and Alivereti Duguivalu shift to center.
Bench Composition and Challenges
The bench will include several regular starters like left prop Giorgi Beria , lock Mathieu Tanguy , and back-row players Noé Della Schiava and Lucas Velarte . The half-back pairing of James Hall and Valentin Delpy rounds out the series of replacements.
It’s essential to note the key players that remain absent from the match due to injuries. The hookers Victor Montgaillard (elbow) and Ignacio Ruiz (pubalgia), along with the flanker Joaquín Oviedo (foot), center Apisai Naqalevu (suspended), and winger Ali Crossdale (knee), will not be a part of the team’s quest for victory against La Rochelle.
Promising players who were initially included in the announced group, such as left prop Bruce Devaux and hooker Nemo Roelofse , as well as newcomers in the back line like Gela Aprasidze and Eneriko Buliruarua, have also been dropped from the final matchday roster. This underscores the challenges faced by the coaching staff with regards to injuries and match fitness.
USAP vs. La Rochelle: A Look at the Opponent
For context, La Rochelle has been a formidable contender in the Top 14, showcasing a blend of tactical skill and physical power. Their lineup features key players such as Brice Dulin at fullback and Grégory Alldritt , the captain, who operates effectively in the number 8 position. With Antoine Hastoy at fly-half and the dynamic backline players like Jack Nowell and Ulupano Seuteni , La Rochelle presents a significant challenge for USAP.
La Rochelle’s Confirmed Lineup:
15. Brice Dulin – 14. Jack Nowell, 13. Ulupano Seuteni, 12. Jules Favre, 11. Hoani Bosmorin – (o) 10. Antoine Hastoy, (m) 9. Tawera Kerr-Barlow – 7. Matthias Haddad, 8. Grégory Alldritt (cap.), 6. Paul Boudehent – 5. Will Skelton, 4. Thomas Lavault – 3. Aleksandre Kuntelia, 2. Nika Sutidze, 1. Reda Wardi.
The substitutes for La Rochelle include: 16. Pierre Bourgarit, 17. Thierry Païva, 18. Judicaël Cancoriet, 19. Levani Botia, 20. Thomas Berjon, 21. Dillyn Leyds, 22. Jonathan Danty, 23. Uini Atonio.
The upcoming match is a pivotal moment for USAP, not only in terms of standings but also in building momentum as they strive for a comeback. With the strategic player changes and a renewed sense of determination, USAP aims to secure a win against La Rochelle, showcasing resilience and tenacity on the field.