Bayonne beats Toulouse 40-26 in Top 14
Aviron Bayonnais delivered a crushing defeat to Stade Toulousain (40-26) in the 5th round of Top 14 at Jean-Dauger stadium. Stellar performances from Joris Segonds and Esteban Capilla propelled Bayonne to the top of the standings. The volcanic atmosphere in the stadium fueled the Basque side's triumph.
The 5th round of Top 14 saw Aviron Bayonnais triumph impressively over defending champions Stade Toulousain, 40-26, at Jean-Dauger stadium. This win catapults the Bayonnais to the top of the league standings.
Joris Segonds was the maestro of the match, as usual. The fly-half converted 6 out of 7 kicks, adding 15 crucial points to his team's tally. He managed his side's highs and lows, providing relief with precise box kicks and orchestrating play on the penultimate try scored by Tiberghien.
Esteban Capilla, a 22-year-old second-rower, emerged as the hero. In the 52nd minute, with Bayonne struggling, he shrugged off two Toulouse defenders to assist Baptiste Germain's try. Eighteen minutes later, well served by Erbinartegaray, he raced to the line to score and seal the victory.
The atmosphere at Jean-Dauger proved pivotal: Basque fans, singing relentlessly, propelled their team, unbeaten at home since June 2024. Their support repelled Toulouse's attacks, especially in the final quarter.
For Toulouse, the flops were telling. Rob Leota, an Australian flanker on his first start, was imprecise with handling errors, including a forward pass by Tom Spring that led to a disallowed try. Alexandre Roumat, another flanker, bore responsibility for missed lineouts, faltered in defense with missed tackles, and lost possession on the final play, gifting Bayonne's last try.
This display solidifies Bayonne as a team to watch this season.