USAP’s Journey: The Path to Survival
Despite their victory against Toulouse, the Perpignanais must once again pass through the access match to ensure their survival. This weekend, the Sang et Or will travel to Grenoble, armed not just with tactics but also with players in top form, aiming to finish the season on a high note.
Preparing for a crucial match for survival in the elite league might not get any worse. Just as they did in 2023 and 2024 , the Union Sportive Arlésienne Perpignan (USAP) will have to navigate through the access match to maintain their position in Top 14 . This past Saturday evening, the Catalans experienced a rollercoaster of emotions. “It was quite strange,” admitted captain Jeronimo De La Fuente after their win against Toulouse. “You win the match, but you’re still disappointed because it’s not enough. We did our job, though.” His sentiments echoed the thoughts of manager Franck Azéma , who remarked, “The contract was fulfilled on our side, and it was important to have no regrets.”
Immediately after the match, the expressions on the players’ faces turned to disappointment as they learned of Stade Français’s victory over Castres . “We realized Paris had won during the last try scored by Toulouse after the whistle,” explained young hooker Mathys Lotrian , who scored twice against the reigning champions. “Of course, you feel disappointed when you’re told that you didn’t secure your stay at the end of the regular phase.”
Positive Aspects from the Match
On that Saturday evening, under the guidance of Azéma, the USAP players certainly boosted their confidence . After a rough first half, the Perpignanais shined in the second, scoring a remarkable five tries against the defending champions. “We are happy with our performance,” Lotrian said. “We need to remember this and be proud of ourselves.”
Indeed, the hooker has all the reasons to feel proud. The Catalans displayed a level of rugby that could easily overshadow their thirteenth place in the rankings. Following the match, Cyril Baille , captain of Stade Toulousain, praised their opponents, stating, “Perpignan does not belong where they are. When I see the match they played, it’s clear they are a strong team.” Notably, the Sang et Or crossed the try-line six times, a first against the Stadistes this season — statistics that certainly inspire hope. “All week, we discussed how we needed to play to win against this team from Toulouse,” echoed De La Fuente. “If you play conservatively, it won’t work.” This desire to play must carry into their next match against Grenoble: “We need to impose our game, take risks when opportunities arise… play well while maintaining our aggression in the right sense.”
Leveraging Experience for Survival
While they could potentially overtake Stade Français, Azéma and his staff were already looking towards Pro D2 . The Catalan manager openly stated, “We didn’t wait until the end of this Top 14 phase to prepare for it. This thirteenth place is the reality of our season, and we must accept it. One thing is certain: we still have a chance to stay in the top division.”
In the upcoming days, Azéma can rely on players experienced in such crucial moments. “There’s no point in succumbing to pressure,” noted De La Fuente. “When you play for USAP, that pressure is almost always there. You walk around downtown, and there’s always someone discussing the club and its results (laughs). It motivates you to fight on the field to stay in the top division.” Following his first match in front of supporters, Lotrian emphasized, “We’ve done it once by winning in Grenoble; why shouldn’t we do it again? We must keep working hard, and it will pay off.”
Strong Players Ready for Battle
Now, the Grenoblois have a week to prepare to face a towering challenge in Posolo Tuilagi . The Catalan lock was impressive against Toulouse and has regained his best form at the perfect time, having missed a significant amount of competition. “Several players are stepping up their game,” Azéma observed. “It’s not about getting carried away, but we know our capabilities.” The likes of Lucas Velarte , Alivereti Duguivalu , and Joaquin Oviedo will be critical on the pitch at Stade des Alpes. Next Saturday, the Sang et Or recognize they will face “a very good team” despite the repeated failures of the Isérois in the Pro D2 final. On paper, form and experience seem to favor the Catalans, but they must remain cautious — as Grenoble knows all too well, surprises can happen.