The ASM Clermont Auvergne team faced off against the Union Bordeaux-Bègles (UBB) on February 23, 2025, during the 17th round of the French Top 14 rugby league, concluding the match with UBB victorious at 22-18. Despite the defeat, the Clermont side managed to secure a defensive bonus point, retaining their position within the top tier of the standings.
Clermont's recent performances raised concerns as they came off back-to-back losses, including a heavy defeat at home against Toulouse the previous week. Seeking redemption, they entered the match with solid intentions against UBB, riding high from having their key players, Matthieu Jalibert and Damian Penaud, back from duties with the French national team, eager to solidify their momentum.
The first half showcased the contest's intensity, as both teams exchanged early blows on the scoreboard. UBB took the lead with power and precision, scoring initially through Sipili Falatea's strong effort around the 15-minute mark, which set the score at 5-0. Clermont responded with determination, equalizing shortly after through the efforts of Fainga'a, closing the gap to 5-5.
Referee Kévin Bralley's decisions came under scrutiny as Clermont claimed to have had a legitimate try disallowed around the 12th minute. The contentious moment unfolded when Urdapilleta's tactical kick found Delguy; the referee penalized him for offside as he positioned himself perfectly for what could have been a decisive try. Coach Christophe Urios highlighted this displeasure post-match, stating, "We were denied a valid try. I don’t understand the offside call against Delguy. That action left us frustrated."
Feedback from the team during the interval, supported by video replays, pointed toward inconsistencies with Bralley’s judgment, as they believed Delguy had not been offside. The first half closed with UBB leading 12-5, after Tameifuna's late try pushed their lead just before halftime.
The second half continued to serve as proof of Clermont’s resilience. Following the halftime break, ASM intensified their offense, as Penaud expertly maneuvered through UBB's stringent line, placing their first try of the half and narrowing the score to 22-15. UBB, undeterred by the momentum shift, managed to maintain their lead through tactical kicking and strategic plays.
Yet another pivotal moment came when Clermont was close to completing another attack, but missed out on several scoring opportunities, culminating in frustration across the squad. The final minutes saw the team's efforts pay off with Urdapilleta successfully kicking for points, bringing the score to 22-18 just before the final whistle. Despite the loss, the defensive bonus point was invaluable for Clermont, who were left reflecting on what could have been.
Coach Urios succinctly captured the team's sentiments post-match: "We have regrets because we deserved more than just one point. Although we’re happy to halt our streak of two matches without points, our performance was solid, and we controlled broad stretches of the game. The referee’s decisions, particularly the non-try, are causing discontent. We can’t ignore our errors, especially with missed opportunities when we could have capitalized on scoring chances."
His emphasis on improving discipline and consistency is expected to be at the forefront of training leading up to their next match. For the third week running, Clermont failed to secure victory, marking their fifth loss across six matches. They remain placed sixth, with 39 points, still within the playoff contention but needing to sharpen their resolve.
The tightly contested match highlighted the significant ups and downs within the Top 14 as it continues to develop the identity of teams heading toward the semifinal stages. Both UBB and Clermont face continual scrutiny as they navigate through the league's demands, hoping to secure their status for the upcoming playoffs.
The game, part of the rich history of French rugby, provided fans with thrilling moments typical of Top 14 matches. The atmosphere at Stade Chaban-Delmas showcased the passionate fanfare surrounding both clubs, enhancing the rivalry evident on the pitch.
Overall, though Clermont left Bordeaux disappointed, they gained invaluable experience and knowledge from this match against formidable opponents, setting the stage for their next meeting under less pressure and more at stake.