France collapses in the face of the Italian feat.

The French team floundered in Rome in front of an Italian team with a big heart, full of desire and enthusiasm, and it is only fair that our transalpine friends lifted the Garibaldi trophy.

Italy dominated this match from start to finish, and even though France, thanks to two personal feats by Clerc and Trinh-duc, led 18 to 6, the lack of aggression in battles, the poverty of our offensive play, the weakness of our kicking game, and the lack of motivation and general combativeness left us to foresee that this lead was illusory, which was confirmed by Masi’s try allowing the Italians to hope for a possible victory that materialized with Bergamasco’s penalty following yet another French mistake four minutes before the end. Supported by a frenzied crowd, the Italian team did not let go, exemplified by the exemplary captain Parisse. Our poor French, trying to get a helping hand from the referee on a final scrum, in vain, could only watch as Italy erupted in joy and emotion, celebrating with its crowd.

If our Italian friends’ undeniable victory allows them to foster new ambitions, it leaves us French with an impression of enormous waste. The assessment is appalling when we hear our coach declaring: “we have to start from scratch.” It seems to me that we have been working for three and a half years to prepare for this 2011 World Cup. How can one imagine reconsidering everything six months before the deadline?

No, I rather believe that the shell has been empty for a long time and that Lièvremont and his staff are operating without direction. It’s easy to criticize the players, but have we implemented a game system that matches their qualities? Have we chosen the best? Have we created a real team? The answer is no. On the contrary, the players no longer listen to their coach who today is lost because his lack of experience is his greatest handicap. However, he is not the sole one responsible. He made a mistake by accepting this position, but those who made an even bigger mistake are the gentlemen members of our federation’s management who chose him.

E.BUCHET