A thin midfield gets thinner
The 31-12 scoreline in Whangarei was not the only bad news for France Women on Saturday. Coach Francois Ratier reported three players hurt in the shoulder after the defeat to New Zealand: centres Gabrielle Vernier and Teani Feleu, and back-rower Axelle Berthoumieu. The severity is not yet known, though Ratier said there were no heavy breaks at this stage and that the squad needs to find out who can train again this week.
The centre position is the worry. Aubane Rousset has already flown home this week with a shoulder problem of her own. If Vernier and Feleu are both ruled out, only the young Charlie Gauyat and the versatile Elodie Fernandez would be left to cover the midfield.
no renewal
Free for 2 weeks.
Concussion protocols on top
Ratier also confirmed two or three concussions. Back-rower Mouna Toure complained of a blow to the head at the end of the first half and was replaced at the break by Elsa Peyras. Second-row Cloe Correa left the field late in the match under the same protocol. Both will now go through the return-to-play process.
France were beaten in New Zealand again, and the group had spoken of shame and anger after the previous defeat on tour. Ratier said afterwards that there was something to build on. Whether he has the bodies to build with is the question hanging over the week ahead.
Discover the rest of our RUGBY news on MathODDS!
in your pocket.
Real-time notifications & alerts
Leave a Reply