Key Highlights from the Top 14 Clash on Sunday
Penaud's Hat-trick Leads UBB to a Comprehensive Win
On the 21st day of the Top 14, Damian Penaud, the 27-year-old winger, played a pivotal role in Union Bordeaux-Bègles' impressive 41-7 victory against Clermont. Penaud scored twice in the 43rd and 53rd minutes by breaking away on the right wing, and sealed his hat-trick with a stunning counter-attack in the 79th minute. This season, Penaud has scored 11 tries in just 8 matches, positioning him as one of the top try scorers in the league.
Defensive Heroics by Louis Bielle-Biarrey
Louis Bielle-Biarrey, another French winger, showcased his defensive skills by stopping Clermont's Baptiste Jauneau from scoring in the 78th minute. Bielle-Biarrey's crucial tackle at the goal line prevented a try that seemed certain, contributing significantly to preserving UBB's offensive bonus.
UBB's Strategic Victory Enhances Their League Standing
Thanks to this victory, Union Bordeaux-Bègles has moved up to the fifth position in the French Top 14, now four points ahead of Pau in seventh place. Clermont, on the other hand, faces a tough battle ahead as they are currently 11th, just four points above the relegation play-off spot occupied by Montpellier.
Penaud Reflects on Playing Against Former Team
Damian Penaud, who transferred to Bordeaux-Bègles last year after nine seasons with Clermont, expressed a calm approach to the match, which evidently paid off. His performance against his former team was both a personal and team triumph.
References
- https://www.lefigaro.fr/sports/rugby/top-14/ubb-clermont-en-video-les-trois-essais-de-la-fleche-damian-penaud-20240422
- https://www.leparisien.fr/sports/rugby/ubb-clermont-la-video-de-lincroyable-sauvetage-de-louis-bielle-biarrey-qui-amene-un-essai-de-damian-penaud-22-04-2024-J2MHGTN47RCUFBQ4LKNJB4YZGU.php