FCG - Nevers : 27-17
Six months after the last match played in this venue, the 4,111 spectators who were lucky enough to be at the Stade des Alpes this evening came out delighted by the victory of the "Rouge & Bleu" over Nevers (27-17). Of course, as with any first game, and even more so with a preparation chopped up by Covid's cases, lockdowns, friendly games cancelled or postponed, there was no crazy rhythm. Fault also, perhaps to the new rules of the rucks, to which the players and staffs are not accustomed yet.
In any case, the Grenoble players will be satisfied with this victory. It took shape from the first half when, on each of Grenoble players' forays into the opposing camp, Enzo Selponi converted the penalties his team had won. At the same time, Nevers was less realistic, its striker missing, in addition, two penalties. The score is thus in favour of the Isèrois at the break (12-3).
The second half begins in the same way, with a penalty scored by Enzo Selponi (15-3, 43'). The "Rouge & Bleu" will then take advantage of their superiority in the scrum to finally score more: after a 5-meters scrum, Alaska Taufa hits the defense, the Tongan is blocked, but Deon Fourie follows well and scores the first try of the game (22-3, 58'). The Nivernais will then reduce the game considerably and press on the drive balls that the "Rouge & Bleu" have more difficulty to defend following the replacement of Ilia Kaikatsishvili. Thanks to two of them, USON scored twice and came back to the score (22-17, 72').
It was feared that the Colomiers episode would be repeated, especially since the FCG had to finish at 14, Thibaut Martel having taken a yellow card on Nevers' second try. Fortunately, Ange Capuozzo, little in sight until then, unblocks his counter by typing to follow for himself. He is quicker than his counterpart and allows to deliver his team by offering him a decisive advantage (27-17, 73').
With this victory, the FCG ideally launches its season. It will have to get back to work very quickly, since a trip to Aurillac is scheduled for Thursday. The next meeting at the Stade des Alpes is scheduled for September 18, against Montauban.
Auteur : FCG Rugby