ON THE FINAL day of the regular season in the Top 14 yesterday, Bordeaux knew that a win away to Toulouse would almost certainly secure them a play-off place and Champions Cup qualification.
With Oyonnax losing heavily away to Toulon, the possibility became a reality as Raphaël Ibañez’s side pushed the in-form Toulouse all the way in a closely-fought battle at Stade Ernest Wallon.
With the game at 23-22 in Toulouse’s favour, Bordeaux won a scrum penalty in the final minute in an eminently kickable position. Slot the three points and Champions Cup rugby for next season would be assured, as well as ensuring Bordeaux would advance into the play-offs.
Up stepped the usually reliable Lionel Beauxis…
Heartbreak for Bordeaux, but the missed kick means Oyonnax have achieved the unthinkable in qualifying for next season’s Champions Cup.
Christophe Urios’ men have the second smallest budget in the Top 14 at €14.3million and the town has a population of only around 23,000, but they have been punching well above their weight in this campaign.
Urios is leaving for Castres this summer, however, and with a European burden on them next season, it may be tough for Oyonnax to repeat their wonderful achievement. For now, they’ll reflect on a sublime campaign and thank Beauxis for his miss.
