The Gazelles got off to a good start in their fifth season in Elite 2 rugby. They won their first match of the season last week against Stade Dijonnais (28-21). But in this first block, it is not time to rest on its laurels. This Saturday, it is the Stade Français, relegated from Elite 1, which presents itself in front of the girls of USAL.
A renewed group and staff
USAL is starting this season with a staff that has changed slightly, with the departure of one of the coaches, but also with that of several players in the squad. It’s a whole new band to get to grips with. “You have to build little by little, explains full-back and center Célia Valentino, we will first try to stay at this level, aim for the top of the table or the final stages. Final phases that they know well, since they were in the semi-finals last year.
Among the young players who have arrived, there is Pauline Labarre, a center from the cadets, who is rising for the first time to the senior level. “I’m a little apprehensive, she said, because I’ve only been playing rugby for a year and it’s another level, but I have no doubt that it will be fine.” She can count on the help of the group. “We must bring us, the old ones, as much as we can to the new ones to build the group together” complete Celia Valentino.
Stade Français for the home premiere
The Stade Français is a big team, descended from the upper echelon. The usalists will have to ward off bad luck, they who had lost against the big teams in the championship last year. More than a championship issue, it is also a question of reputation. “We proudly represent the department and the region, there are not many teams that are at this level here” says Celia Valentino.
Kick-off at 3 p.m. on annex 5 of the Beaublanc stadium in Limoges