The Pitchounettes claim victory against Chambéry on Sunday afternoon. After being challenged in the first half, they ultimately won 15-11. The Violettes thus move up to the second place in the group.
The match was expected to be quite epic for the Niçoises, not very accustomed to the weekend’s weather. It was therefore under relatively cold rain and slightly icy wind that the players took to the field.
As often, the Azuréennes struggle to get into their game. The Chambéry players immediately take control of the ball and increase the pressure on the Nice defense. After a few minutes, the situation is clear: two silly mistakes, two penalties, and most importantly, 6 points for Chambéry!
Soap and Ice Rink
The Pitchounettes gradually resurface and manage to advance with the ball. However, the rain does not help the 30 players: the balls slip, and the footing isn’t very stable. The Niçoises occupy the Chambéry field, and Laury Robbe finally scores a try. Sophie Mallau misses her conversion, but the Pitchounettes are now in the game.
The Savoyards respond a few minutes later. They score a try, due to a defensive error within the Nice 22 meters. The kicker misses her conversion, and the score remains at halftime: 5-11.
Nice Second Half
The second period is more favorable for the Azuréennes. The rain intensifies and forward passes occur repeatedly on both sides, but the Pitchounettes invade the Savoyard field. The Chambéry players panic and commit several fouls near their goal line. Aurélie Barbier takes advantage of a loose ball to score the second Nice try, converted by Fanny Squillaci. The center adds 3 more points with a penalty to the right of the posts.
Despite several line-outs and scrums within the Savoyard 22 meters, the match ends 15-11 for the Niçoises.
Thanks to this victory, the Pitchounettes reclaim the 2nd place in the group and remain in the running for the final stages of the French Fédérale 1 championship.
