For their trip to their Provence Rugby neighbors, Stade Niçois was narrowly defeated by three points (33-30).
After four consecutive defeats and a fifteen-day break, Stade Niçois returned to action for the 12th round of the Pro D2 championship. The task was not easy with a trip to their Provence Rugby neighbors for a derby. For the Aix team, the objective is of course to aim for the top of the table. As for the Niçois, they still need to fight to stay in the league.
The start of the match favored the locals from Provence who took control of the ball and continued to play on the front foot. They were rewarded as they scored two tries, one of which was converted within three minutes, leading (13-0). Fortunately, Stade Niçois responded and scored a try through Dufau. Provence scored a third unconverted try and led (20-7) at halftime.
Stade Niçois Reverse the Trend
The second half was entirely to the advantage of the Niçois, who regained control of the ball. The impact was immediate as the visitors scored two tries within seven minutes, catching up with the locals. It took two penalties from Jules Plisson for Aix to stay in the match. But it was in the 66th minute that the match turned for the first time. After wearing out their opponents as much as possible, the Niçois scored their fourth try of the match and took the lead with only fifteen minutes remaining.
The Niçois tried to hold on, but two minutes from the end, the match turned for the second time. Provence crossed the line and crushed the courageous Niçois. Plisson remained unshaken and converted the winning try. With this victory, Provence Rugby is fifth in the standings. For the Niçois, the tough streak continues, as they are at the bottom of the standings. The goal will be not to lose against Nevers next week to stay in the race to avoid relegation.
