Top 14: “It was one match too many” for Danty, recognizes O’Gara after the expulsion of the Blues center

Stade Rochelais can't do it... After two defeats to launch their Champions Cup campaign (Leinster 9-16 and Stormers 20-21), the reigning double European champion is also struggling in the Top 14, since he lost this Saturday on the Jean-Bouin pitch against Stade Français Paris (18-13). “We lacked precision and also speed. The red complicated things. I have the feeling that some players are suffering, admitted Maritimes manager Ronan O’Gara. Is it the game plan, is it the environment, is it me? I would like to succeed in freeing them so that they can give the maximum of their abilities. But I remain confident, I think something will click.”

And confided: “The red card (inflicted on Jonathan Danty in the 47th minute) complicates things. If he takes yellow and Ward nothing, that's good. This red kills the match. He's just digesting the World Cup, he's done Leinster, Stormers. Red, I take it for myself and my management. It was one match too many for him.”

The Irish technician adds that his team “can leave with frustration in view of the opportunities. Now, a big week awaits us with the reception of Toulouse (next Saturday at 9:05 p.m.), which is a team that is still efficient and dangerous, even without its internationals. The ranking, I know, we are far behind, ninth with 21 points while Racing is in the lead with 34 points..."