Valencians achieve remarkable victory and dream of quarter-finals
Tears, hugs… Valenciens achieved a true feat this Sunday in Auch (34-24). They are looking forward to their quarter-final match.
Jean-Michel Baylet: “Magnificent victory! I want to say unexpected because when we faced Auch, we expected a tough match, being the capital of rugby and a big city. But there’s no comparison in the game. Apart from a few minor issues in the muddle, we dominated in attack, defense, in all aspects of the game and we never feared, even though it was a very close match. Congratulations to Avenir valencien. They fulfilled their contract, congratulations to their president and to Sunday in Langon.”
Jérôme Pradelle (coach): “I am very happy because winning here is significant. It’s a tough team, but I think we started well, played with speed and rhythm, we scored and I believe the victory was deserved throughout the match. Defensively we held our ground. I dedicate this victory to my son who turns 20 today.”
Salem Khanfous (hooker, captain): “It was a very strategic match. I want to highlight the importance of this match as it takes us to the quarter-finals. Since ’94 or ’95, no one from Valence had come here to win. We have a history in the finals and now we are getting a second chance with our story, playing a second final match against Langon.”
