Vannes secures dramatic return to Top 14 rugby league

RC Vannes has clinched a dramatic return to the elite Top 14 rugby league, overcoming Provence Rugby 18-14 in a nail-biting Pro D2 final held at Toulouse's Ernest-Wallon stadium.

The victory caps a swift return for Vannes, who were relegated from the Top 14 just a year ago. Despite being heavily favored, the Breton club endured a tough contest against a resilient Provence side. Vannes took an early lead through an unconverted try by Taccola in the fourth minute, but Provence responded with a try from Cellio-Zwiler, leaving Vannes with a narrow 10-7 lead at halftime.

In a tense second half, Vannes extended their lead with a try from Stevenson in the 66th minute. However, Provence refused to yield, with Cazenave scoring a converted try in the 75th minute to narrow the gap to four points. Despite a late surge from Provence, Vannes managed to hold on, securing the championship and their place back in the Top 14.

Provence Rugby will now face Perpignan, the 13th-placed team in the Top 14, in a playoff match for the final promotion spot. This will be Perpignan's fourth playoff in five years, having won the previous three to secure their top-flight status.