After two seasons in the Top 14, concluded in 9th place, the Stade Rochelais has the ambition to rise in the hierarchy of the Top 14.
The Stade Rochelais changed its logo this summer, but in the sports group, there was little change, although the Maritimes have lost Jean-Pascal Barraque or Alofa Alofa. The few departures were offset by several Espoirs of French rugby, as Dany Priso andArthur Retière. The club of Patrice Collazo has also secured the services of two 'stars' players: Brock James, former flyhalf of Clermont, and Victor Vito, All Black and recent winner of Super Rugby with the Hurricanes.
This ambitious recruitment strengthens a team that now has 3 French International: Uini Atonio, Vincent Pelo and Kevin Gourdon, the latter two participated in the summer tour of the XV of France in Argentina.
Unable to win away last season, the Rochelais know that they have to do it this year if they want to finish higher in the league. Traveling to Grenoble this weekend, players of Stade Rochelais want to confirm their good performance in the second half against Clermont, which allowed them to snatch the draw (30-30) against the semifinalist of the last season. The Maritimes took the ASM indiscipline (18 conceded penalties) to stay in the match. Grenoble players have experienced the same problem against the Stade Français; they are warned!
Auteur : FCG Rugby