On December 22, Aveyron's rugby teams showcased dramatically contrasting results during their Fédérale 2 matches, as Millau suffered a heavy defeat against Palavas, losing 43-13, and Decazeville clinched victory with a strong 25-6 performance against Causse Vézère.
Millau entered the match with high hopes following their previous week's convincing victory over Saint-Raphaël-Fréjus, but they quickly faced disappointment on the rugged terrain of Hérault. The local Palavas team, which had previously struggled this season, took charge from the outset, scoring seven tries. Their early dominance saw them lead by 21-3 after just 22 minutes, with their speedy backs exploiting Millau's defensive lapses. Despite being pressed back, Millau managed to respond just before halftime, with Alric's well-placed try offering some hope as they trailed 21-13 at the break.
Unfortunately for the Millavois, the second half began much like the first, as they conceded two quick tries to extend Palavas's lead to 33-13. The match ended with even more heartache for Millau, as Palavas capped their performance with two late tries, bringing the final score to 43-13. This defeat saw Millau drop back down to the relegation zone, something they'll need to address before their next set of matches start again next month.
"Pas de miracle pour Millau, largement dominé par un candidat aux premières places," reported by local sources, capturing the essence of their struggle against the higher-ranking Palavas.
On the flip side, Decazeville was riding high after their victory over Causse Vézère, which not only secured the win but also placed them second place on the league table. Their match took place at Stade Camille-Guibert, where the weather conditions posed significant challenges, with heavy rain making the pitch sodden and unyielding. Nevertheless, Decazeville thrived, dominating the field and executing their game-plan effectively.
The team put forth impressive performances from key players like Boris Lac and Mathieu Nigou, scored four tries through dominant forwards play, particularly through group penetrations and physical scrummaging. Lac's hat-trick showcased his tenacity, showing just how dangerous he can be near the line. The match culminated with Decazeville’s triumph by 25-6, leaving them content with their performance and the position gained before the league breaks for the holiday season.
"Cadeau au pied du sapin avant l’heure," alluding to their happy and unexpected fortune on the day, highlighted the euphoria felt by Decazeville.
While Decazeville celebrates their elevated position, Millau has some serious work to do. The two teams’ fates serve as reminders of the fluctuations seen throughout the season, with Decazeville reflecting the very possibilities of what maintaining form can achieve, opposed to Millau's need for consolidation and improvement as they turn their focus toward their upcoming games, where every point counts to escape the dreaded relegation zone.
Both teams will look to regroup and prepare as they enter the break, with Decazeville eyeing the continuity of their good run and Millau aiming to stop the bleed of losses and find ways to navigate their challenging situation. Their journeys reflect the highs and lows of the sport, and the rich culture surrounding rugby within Aveyron as they face upcoming challenges with renewed determination.
