After every championship weekend, the RMC Sport editorial team salutes the performances of the players who stood out the most. Here is the 20th round team of the Top 14.
LEFT PROP
Andy Bordelai (Aviron Bayonnais)
He stayed on the field for 65 minutes because of his solidity that eased the pressure on Aviron. Dominating in the closed melee, he was involved in all the battles in the first half (8 tackles). The injuries to Botia and Skelton reduced La Rochelle’s pack density, allowing the Bayonnais and Bordelai to excel in this area. Available and aggressive with the ball, he was tidy during possession. Very solid.
HOOKER
Lucas Martin (Aviron Bayonnais)
Similar to the game against Montauban, his entry into the match energized the Basque team. He scored his 7th try of the season from a maul. Very involved in both attack and defense (13 tackles in 35 minutes), he is becoming a revelation of the Bayonne season. The partnership he forms with Facundo Bosch is one of the highlights of Aviron. A promising prospect for the future.
RIGHT PROP
Ben Tameifuna (Union Bordeaux Bègles)
The standout moment of the game. The turning point. When UBB, trailing by three points, earned a penalty in the 74th minute just five meters from Lyon’s try line, Ben Tameifuna changed the course of the match. A powerful run, a tackle break, and three defenders overturned to score. “I wouldn’t want to be facing him,” admitted his winger, Louis Bielle-Biarrey. Despite only playing the last half-hour, the Tongan prop was valuable in the battle, especially when Ugo Boniface received a yellow card. A crucial moment where UBB bent without breaking before delivering the final blow in the closing moments.
SECOND ROW
Peceli Yato (USA Perpignan)
The former Clermont player has been performing at a high level for several weeks. He wreaked havoc in Toulon’s defense with his special skills, including a significant run in the center of the field leading to an impressive try. In defense, his power troubles opponents, as evidenced by a big tackle on Jaminet that ignited the crowd. Yato provides offensive and defensive trouble for the opposition.
Hugo Auradou (Section Paloise)
The captain of Pau once again proved his worth in a crucial match towards the finals. Versatile and royal in the air, he excelled in attack and defense. Undoubtedly one of the most consistent players since the start of the season.
This pattern continues throughout the article, spotlighting outstanding players from various teams.
