After fifteen days and a final block of ten more than positive matches (eight victories), the MHR seems on the right track. It has three weeks to recharge its batteries and keep up the pace.
The frustration has nothing to do with last time. On November 2, Montpellier ended its first block of nine matches with a stinging defeat in Castres (30-26) and a ridiculous scenario. This time, the defeat in Toulouse (27-17), Saturday, only leaves a slightly bitter taste in the mouths of the Héraultais. Not enough to tarnish this block of ten matches finished with eight victories (including four in the European Challenge).
“We had objectives at the start of this series of matches. In terms of accounting, we achieved them. We have to go on vacation proud. We made a good block”, positive the third row, Alexandre Bécognée. The latter, like the state of mind shown at the end of the match by his teammates by scoring two tries in quick succession and depriving the Stade of an offensive bonus, symbolizes the face that the MHR wants to show. “We will fight until the end to do something. Even cornered, even given up on losing, we will give everything”, thundered “Béco”.
Coherent evolution
Now, time for rest. Nine days. Bodies and minds need it. The first five months of the season have been trying. After a first block of groping, searching for the right formula and the right words to exorcise the last two years, the second was that of redemption. The holidays will be the time for digestion.
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For the future, the staff led by Joan Caudullo will have to find the levers to capitalize on this very good sequence. “The break will be studious”, promised the manager on Saturday evening. “In two weeks, we play three important matches (Toulon, Vannes, Castres) which will allow us to know where we stand”, he added.
Where is the MHR today ? It's a bit of a question that comes up every weekend. For now, we can say that Montpellier is on a coherent path. The game system, based on conquest and defense at first, is integrated by the group. The credo, that of being painful as desired, too. The club's communication has also made it one of its editorial lines.
A 23 type emerges
Team level, Caudullo & co are starting to see a 23 type emerge, with a 2-5-8-9-10-12 backbone (Uelese-Duguid-Vunipola-Reinach-Hogg-Serfontein) well-supervised by leaders like Yacouba Camara, Alexandre Bécognée, Lenni Nouchi and Arthur Vincent, or players who are gaining momentum such as Auguste Cadot, Baptiste Erdocio and Maël Moustin.
Internally, we are constantly told about the excellent atmosphere within the group. No black sheep are to be detected. The coaches' speech is appreciated, as is the overall vision. A healthy atmosphere that is reflected in the results.
The MHR is now 8th overall, ten points behind 13th, and is qualified for the 8th finals of the Challenge with possible receptions until the semi-finals. As a break, Montpellier has known worse.
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