The Biterrois left Nice with no chance at the Raoul-Barrière Stadium during the 16th day of Pro D2. By securing the offensive bonus, Béziers strengthens its position at the top of the table. Nice, still the last-placed team, suffers a ninth consecutive defeat.
Béziers hosted Nice with the ambition of securing a bonus victory. The Nice team, struggling this season, hoped to resist and perhaps snatch a bonus point.
Nice started the match well with a spectacular drop goal from Tanguy Ménoret (0-3). Unfortunately, the Nice fullback had to leave the field after a collision. His replacement, Gimbert, scored a penalty, bringing the score to (6-0).
Béziers’ response was swift. Lorre, well served by Gontineac, scored the first try of the match. Marques converted and allowed his team to take the lead (7-6). Malie then increased the lead with a quick counterattack, before Votu, with great power, already secured the offensive bonus for his team before halftime. Béziers was then leading (21-6).
Despite a red card given to Gontineac for a dangerous move, the Nice team could not capitalize on the advantage. Gimbert did reduce the gap with a penalty (21-9) before halftime.
A one-sided second half
Despite being outnumbered, Béziers continued to dominate the match. Malie secured a double in the 50th minute. Votu, always valuable in offensive phases, created spaces for his teammates. Shortly after, a penalty try rewarded the collective power of the Biterrois forwards (35-9).
Nice, clumsy and too nervous, never appeared capable of competing. Courtaud sealed the match with a final try at the end of the game, from a precise pass by Anon. The final score of (42-9) perfectly reflects the superiority of the home team.
This victory allows Béziers to consolidate its third place in the standings. The Biterrois demonstrated mastery and efficiency in all aspects of the game. For Nice, the bad streak continues. With a ninth consecutive defeat, the Maralpins still occupy the last place in Pro D2. Their indiscipline and recurring mistakes will cost them dearly if they do not react quickly.
Next Friday, they will play at home against Oyonnax, in what might resemble a last-chance match.
