France barely escaped disaster! Despite a commanding early lead, they were almost stunned by a ferocious Fijian comeback before ultimately securing a 34-21 victory in Bordeaux during the Autumn Nations Series. This win offered a much-needed reprieve after their recent defeat to South Africa, but left many wondering if the French team is truly ready for future challenges. But here's where it gets controversial... was this win a sign of resilience, or a lucky escape that masks deeper problems?
The match began with France seemingly in complete control. Nicolas Depoortère, the young center, ignited the scoreboard, followed swiftly by tries from Julien Marchand and Charles Ollivon. Thomas Ramos flawlessly converted all three, propelling France to a seemingly unassailable 21-0 lead within the first 20 minutes. It looked like a walk in the park for Les Bleus.
Then, the Fijian storm hit. Showing incredible resilience and attacking flair, Fiji mounted a stunning comeback. Tries from Kalaveti Ravouvou, Selestino Ravutaumada, and Wainiqolo, coupled with three successful conversions by Simione Kuruvoli, brought the scores level shortly after halftime. The momentum had completely shifted; an upset was very much on the cards! This comeback highlighted Fiji's incredible athleticism and ability to create opportunities from seemingly nothing, a testament to their unique brand of rugby. And this is the part most people miss... Fiji's comeback wasn't just about individual brilliance; it was about a collective belief and a never-say-die attitude that rattled the French team.
Following the interval, tensions soared. A powerful eight-phase play culminated in Wainiqolo carrying Depoortère and Ramos over the try line, further showcasing Fiji's relentless attack. The French defense looked increasingly vulnerable.
However, France managed to regain their composure, largely thanks to the boot of Thomas Ramos, who slotted two crucial penalties. Then, Depoortère sealed the victory with his second try, providing much-needed breathing room for the home side. The relief was palpable after a week of intense criticism following their loss to the reigning Rugby World Cup champions, South Africa. This defeat had put head coach Fabien Galthié under immense pressure.
"What's important was to win," Galthié stated to TF1, emphasizing the significance of the victory after a challenging start to their home season. He acknowledged the threat posed by Fiji, stating, "It was a victory against an opponent we feared." He also expressed optimism for improvement in the upcoming match against Australia in Paris next Saturday, concluding their year. Fiji, on the other hand, will travel to Spain.
To avoid a fifth consecutive Test defeat (following the loss to South Africa and three prior defeats to New Zealand in July), Galthié recalled experienced No.8 Grégory Alldritt as captain and positioned Ollivon at lock. Fiji's coach, Mick Byrne, showed faith in his squad, retaining the same starting lineup from their previous defeat to England. This lineup included seven France-based players, such as Racing 92's Ravumautada and Lyon's Wainiqolo, demonstrating the strong connection between Fijian talent and French rugby.
The first half saw France initially dominate, with tries from Depoortère (who, adding extra significance, grew up in the Bordeaux suburb of Pessac), hooker Marchand, and Ollivon. However, Fiji clawed their way back, trailing by just seven points at halftime thanks to tries from Bristol centre Ravouvou and Ravumautada. Les Bleus ended the half with flanker Oscar Jegou playing centre due to head injuries sustained by starting midfielders Pierre-Louis Barassi and his replacement Emilien Gailleton.
After the break, Fiji continued to press, with Wainiqolo forcing his way over the line despite the efforts of two French defenders. Kuruvoli's third conversion leveled the scores. With just a quarter of the game remaining, Ramos's two penalties, resulting from Fijian indiscipline, put France back in front. Depoortère's late try then secured the victory for the hosts.
According to Alldritt, "You need three players to stop one player, that's the most difficult thing with them (Fiji)," highlighting the challenge of defending against Fiji's powerful runners and individual brilliance.
So, what do you think? Was France's victory a true sign of their strength, or did they get lucky against a spirited Fijian side? Did Galthié make the right calls with his team selection? And more importantly, does this match reveal underlying weaknesses in the French squad that need to be addressed before they face tougher opposition? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
