A FEW WEEKS ago, former Munster back row James Coughlan won promotion to the Top 14 after winning the Pro D2 with Pau, and today another Irish forward helped his team get closer to securing a place in the lucrative competition next season.
Former Leinster second row Mark Flanagan has played for Mont-Du-Marsan since 2013 and they beat Albi 22-8 in the playoff semi-final to move one game away from the top flight.
Unfortunately for the Westmeath man, he has already signed a contract with the Bedford Blues in the English Championship, so he will be leaving even if Mon-Du-Marsan get promoted.
Flanagan has been a crucial member of the pack since moving from Leinster two years ago. The former UCD product made nine league appearances for the province after making his debut against Glasgow Warriors in April 2010.
His side will have to get past Agen in the playoff final, as they advanced on a tiebreaker after drawing 32-32 with Perpignan after extra-time. Perpignan, who won the Top 14 in 2009, were relegated last season and despite losing most of their stars, still have backs David Marty, Lifeimi Mafi and Tommaso Allan in their ranks.
The game was tied 26-26 after normal time and although Perpignan took a six-point lead with extra-time winding down, Agen struck back to make the final as a result of scoring more tries.
