In a thrilling display of rugby prowess, CA Brive secured a historic victory against Stade Aurillacois, triumphing 39-23 on April 25, 2025. This win not only marked Brive's first victory in Aurillac since 2002 but also solidified their position as serious contenders for a direct spot in the semi-finals of the Pro D2 league.
The match kicked off with high expectations, especially after Brive's previous encounter with Aurillac, where they dominated with a 48-17 scoreline at home. This time, the stakes were higher, and the atmosphere was electric as fans filled the Jean-Alric stadium.
Brive opened the scoring with an impressive try from Benjamin Boudou, who emphasized the significance of the win, stating, "It had been 20 years since we last won here in Aurillac; for the club, it's something great." His early try set the tone for a match filled with intensity and determination.
Throughout the game, Brive showcased their offensive strength, scoring five tries, with standout performances from Mathis Ferté, who notched a double, and Benjamin Lefranc, who added another try to the tally. The team's ability to capitalize on Aurillac's weaknesses was evident, especially after Aurillac's Yabaki received a yellow card for a late tackle, giving Brive the numerical advantage they needed to pull away.
Despite a momentary lapse when Brive's Stuart Olding was shown a yellow card, allowing Aurillac to score and close the gap, Brive maintained composure. They led 22-9 at halftime and extended their lead further in the second half, demonstrating their depth and skill.
Coach Pierre-Henry Broncan praised his team's performance, highlighting the importance of the win in their quest for a top-two finish. "We worked hard on our offensive play during training because we knew we had the potential to do it," he remarked. This victory marks Brive's sixth consecutive win, a feat not achieved since 2013, when they also advanced to the finals.
As the match progressed, Brive's players capitalized on every opportunity, with the crowd rallying behind them. The home team struggled to find their rhythm, and as the clock ticked down, Brive's defense held firm, ensuring they would leave Aurillac with a vital bonus point.
Looking ahead, Brive is set to face Grenoble on May 9, 2025, a match that promises to be crucial as they vie for a top position in the league. "We’re not going to rely on others; we need to recover and make sure we put in a massive performance against Grenoble," Broncan added, expressing his confidence in his team's abilities.
On the other hand, Aurillac finds itself in a precarious position, now five points behind the 14th place team, Agen. Their hopes for avoiding relegation are dwindling, and they must regroup quickly as they prepare for their next matches.
As the Pro D2 season nears its conclusion, the battle for playoff positions intensifies. With Brive's momentum and Aurillac's struggles, the dynamics of the league are shifting, setting the stage for an exciting finish to the season.
Brive's fans are buzzing with excitement, and the anticipation for the upcoming clash against Grenoble is palpable. The team is determined to keep their winning streak alive and secure their place in the semi-finals, making every match a must-watch.
In summary, CA Brive's victory over Stade Aurillacois is not just a win; it’s a statement. With their eyes firmly set on the prize, they are ready to face whatever challenges lie ahead.
