Toulon-Toulouse: Dupont and Ntamack in top form, RCT risks being left behind... The Tops and Flops

Stade Toulousain delivered a resounding performance, defeating Toulon 51-27 in a crucial Top 14 encounter in Marseille. This decisive victory serves as a significant rebound for Toulouse after a disappointing loss the previous week, showcasing their resilience and attacking prowess. The win not only solidifies their standing in the league but also positions them favorably for a potential home semi-final, a testament to their consistent form throughout the season.

“

Okay, he doesn't cover the length of the field with every ball he touches. But still... The scrum-half delivered a great game this Saturday evening in Marseille.

The match was particularly notable for the stellar performances of two of Toulouse's star players, scrum-half Antoine Dupont and fly-half Romain Ntamack. Dupont, despite not being constantly involved in every play, was highly influential around the rucks, created attacking opportunities with his dynamic play, and provided crucial support with his kicking game. His decisive passes, including one for Ntamack, and a try scored with his signature flair, underscored his importance to the team. Ntamack, meanwhile, was exceptional with his boot, converting all seven of his penalty attempts for a total of 22 points, and demonstrating his reliability in high-pressure situations.

“

Ntamack, he's got the foot. We could have mentioned Peato Mauvaka's good game. But Romain Ntamack's game is also worth highlighting.

For Toulon, the defeat marks a significant blow to their aspirations for the Top 14 playoffs. Having already been eliminated from the Champions Cup semi-finals, their chances of reaching the knockout stages of the domestic league now appear slim. The team's performance highlighted recurring issues, particularly in their line-out play, where missed throws and an inability to effectively counter Toulouse's mauls were evident. This vulnerability in set-piece possession proved costly against a formidable opponent like Toulouse.

“

Toulouse showed a good reaction. Stade Toulousain was expected after the disappointment suffered last week at home against Clermont. After a first half that was hard-fought and less fluid, Ugo Mola's players took control at the end of the first half, before crushing RCT at the end of the match.

The contrast in performance between the two sides was stark. While Toulouse displayed fluidity and clinical finishing, Toulon struggled to establish dominance, particularly in their attacking game. Their wingers, Dréan and Ferté, found little space to operate, and the team failed to create meaningful attacking breaks. This offensive inefficiency, coupled with the set-piece struggles, leaves Toulon with much to address as they aim to secure a top-eight finish to qualify for next season's European Cup.

“

For Toulon, the top 8 and nothing else. A season to forget, yes... But above all, to finish. Eliminated in the semi-finals of the Champions Cup, Pierre Mignoni's players have no doubt said goodbye to the Top 14 finals.