The Niçois claimed their second away victory by winning on the Pierre-Rajon field (23-20). The CSBJ, who were trailing for a long time, resisted until the end but had to settle for a defensive bonus point.
The evening began poorly for Nissa Rugby in Bourgoin. In front of their home crowd, the Sky and Garnet wanted to confirm their strong start to the season and secure a second win. Facing them, Nice arrived with solid ambitions, following a big win in Tarbes and a narrow defeat in Périgueux.
The kickoff is given by the Berjalians, who immediately bring intensity. However, it’s the Niçois who open the scoring in the 20th minute thanks to a penalty by Owen Williams. Bourgoin is penalized in the scrum, an area where the Azuréns quickly impose their strength. The visiting kicker adds two more penalties (0-9), then hooker Leafa scores the first converted try (0-16, 32’).
CSBJ is suffering but does not give up. Just before the break, Gascou finishes off a move at the end of the line and Cachet converts (7-16). This try gives the Nord-Isérois some breathing space at halftime.
An Exciting Second Half
Right at the start of the second half, Bourgoin reignites the match. In a beautiful collective sequence, Tercq scores and Cachet converts the try (14-16, 48’). The Berjalien supporters start to dream of a comeback. But Nissa Rugby quickly responds: Taufua scores a try following a rapid sequence, converted by Owen Williams (14-23, 63’).
Despite the game leaning in favor of the Niçois, CSBJ does not give up. Cachet adds a penalty before being replaced by Gondrand, who further reduces the gap (20-23, 73’). The last ten minutes are tense. The Berjalians throw everything they have, pushing into the enemy’s 40 meters. But the Nice defense holds firm and manages to secure the final decisive ball.
The final whistle leaves the Nord-Isérois frustrated but encouraged, while the Azuréns explode with joy. However, the hosts manage to secure a deserved defensive bonus point. On the other hand, Nice confirms their ability to win away from home with a second away victory in three matches.
This result helps Nice to consolidate their place at the top of the table. The Niçois are fourth, tied with Niort, who also have nine points. The Maralpins are only one point behind the joint leaders Chambéry, CA Périgueux, and Suresnes. The Azuréns will continue next week with their first home match of the season against Massy, who defeated Rennes (41-21). An opportunity to confirm this momentum against another contender for promotion.
In a very competitive National 1 Championship, every point will count. The Niçois still have room for improvement, but Saturday night’s performance hints at promising things for the rest of the season. See you next Saturday, September 13 at 6 p.m. at Marcel-Volot.
Before then, the club invites supporters to enjoy a brand new experience on match days by organizing festive afternoons up until the start of the game. Additionally, some places are free for those who wish to discover rugby. Information on the club’s website.
