Women’s XV of France, following their opening success against Italy, takes on Ireland on Saturday (3:15 pm) in Toulouse, seeking “more free play” to reassure themselves in their quest for the first title in the tournament. With intent. Six countries from 2018
Fever in the first period against the charming Italians (final score 39-6), the Blues multiplied the estimates: forward, loss of balls, problems with touch and melee … before setting the record straight from the locker room.
France coach Anik Heraud before the Six Nations tournament match against Italy in Padua / AFP / Archives on March 17, 2019
“I think there was a little rush, a little pressure because it was the first match of the tournament. Some players, who weren’t used to it, were struggling, so we were a little surprised. But we also had a good team in front of us, who boosted our enthusiasm”, analysis with AFP Anik Heraud, manager of Blue.
But the first match was a bit messy in the beginning, which nonetheless ended in a better win without conceding the slightest effort, ultimately “probably a blessing in disguise”, believes the technician.
“We were upset at our conquest, which is new to us because so far, in Scrum as a contact, we have mastered. And then on the game as well, because we didn’t offer too many options, so that we had Everything should be in store”, specifies Anick Heraud.
“We have to grow a little bit more,” she says. Hence the seven changes made to the squad that will face the Irish at the Ernest-Wallan Stadium, to bring “a little more maturity”, compared to pitting against the Italians.
Opponents of Les Bleues, who failed to qualify for the World Cup in New Zealand (October 8 November 12) and lost against Wales last Saturday, are going through a complicated period: they are “a bit tougher”, one of the few. Along with employees who have changed and need rebuilding.
The joy of the French after their victory against Ireland during the Six Nations tournament at Energia Park Stadium in Dublin on March 9, 2019 / AFP / Archives
Of her 19 doubles with Ireland in the tournament, Women’s XV of France has won 16, with 9 at home.
“But Ireland is a team that still has a lot of heart and desire,” warned the coach.
Young full-back Chlo Jacquet, who scored a bonus attempt against Italy but is on the substitute bench on Saturday, is well aware: “They are going to put a lot of pressure on us, so it’s up to us to Optimize, to play fairer and more free,” she told AFP.
XV of France will travel to Scotland on the third day of the tournament on 10 April.
Alcohol maven. Incurable pop culture specialist. Communicator. Gamer. Certified explorer.