Pro D2 2010/11 season and lower divisions

[M Two One]

In the second division, things are going to be difficult to predict this season. Let me start by writing that I don't think Albi will make a quick return. Saint-Etienne will find their way back down to Fédérale 1 the same way Lannemezan did last season. Also, this time around Aix-en-Provence will not be spared unless there is another financial loop hole.

Promotion candidates are strong once again. I think Oyonnax will follow La Rochelle and finally earn their way to a place in the Top 14. This is a club that could stick around for some time and even develop into something bigger. I think that Pau will finally find some stability and claw their way back to the Top 14, but it will be difficult. I don't they will will finish second, but rather anywhere from third to fifth. Lyon could surprise me and finish on top, but I think they'll have to wait yet another season.

Expect Carcassonne to quickly establish themselves well as a professional rugby club. It was no surprise despite there being 48 other clubs in Fédérale 1 that last season they easily won and gained promotion to Pro D2. It was only a matter of time as the club had a heavy make over during the past couple of seasons in the lower divisions. A taste of Top 14 with moderate success shouldn't be too far off in the coming years.

Here are my predictions:

Pro D2
01. Oyonnax (c)
02. Lyon
03. Pau (p)
04. Albi
05. Aurillac
06. Tarbes
07. Narbonne
08. Carcassonne
09. Colomiers
10. Grenoble
11. Bordeaux-Bègles
12. Mont-de-Marsan
13. Auxh
14. Dax
15. Aix-en-Provence
16. Saint-Etienne

Fédérale 1 can be difficult to predict since there are so many clubs. The most important thing is to familiarize yourself with as many as you can. Some of them may ring a bell, like Montauban and Bourg-en-Bresse, as well as former powerhouse Béziers.

Last season Carcassonne had no issue cleaning house and winning the Jean-Prat. Saint-Etienne was a huge surprise and honestly off of just about everyone's radar.

There is a new format this season where there are now four groups instead of six. There are also 49 clubs instead of 48 for this season. Lille MRC was originally relegated last season, but DNACG moved them back up. The top four clubs from each group move on the next round to compete for the Jean-Prat, while the bottom three (four in group 4) are automatically relegated to the fourth tier in French rugby union.

Group 1 is fairly weak. Bourg-en-Bresse is the only promotion candidate. I'd like to make a note of Nevers as the club was recently promoted and I expect them to do fairly well from the start. Watch out for them in a few years.

Group 2 has clubs like Béziers and Valence d'Agen. Both should put up a promotion fight, but I doubt either one will succeed. Montauban is also in this group, but after their financial problems their make up has taken a 180. La Seyne could make a push for promotion as well. They're one of my dark horses.

Group 3 contains professional clubs Limoges and Périgueux. Limoges was relegated from Pro D2 a few seasons ago and have struggled to find their way back. They've gone through a make over and look more than ready to find their way back and stay there. Périgueux continues to improve every season and could surprise.

Group 4 has a former powerhouse in Lourdes and many promotion candidates. Tyrosse is a top pick here. The club is a from a town that has a smaller population than their stadium contains seats and yet they have tasted the professional leagues only a few years ago. They remain strong and have some surprisingly skilled unknowns. Cahors could also make a push and I never like to leave out Lourdes even though they have stumbled time and time again to return to prominence. Lannemezan could find their way back to Pro D2, but this group will prove difficult.

Here are my top five clubs in Fédérale 1:

01. Limoges
02. Lannemezan
03. Bourg-en-Bresse
04. Tyrosse
05. Périgueux

 

[Amobokoboko]

The only team I know is Pau so they will get my support, kudos for the nice reviews

 

[M Two One]

Thanks, I actually have a soft spot for Pau because I lived there for a few months at some point in my life.

 

[Amobokoboko]

Thanks, good to hear and find a fellow fan.

 

[M Two One]

Here is a brief recap of this weekend's matches:

Auch Gers continue to decline with a big loss to Mont-de-Marsan. After being relegated from the Top 14 as quickly as they dominated Pro D2 just the season before, the past two seasons have been hell for the small club. Albi narrowly defeated Tarbes in a tight match. Aurillac slammed Aix-en-Provence with a final score of 36-9. Grenoble are starting to pick things up after they defeated Carcassonne.

My pick for promotion, Oyonnax, are climbing the table and look well prepared to take the ***le at this early stage with their win over Bordeaux-Bègles. Lyon also picked up a win over Dax, but Dax are looking in poor form early on this season. Colomiers defeated Pau by a final score of 33-19. Colomiers are a surprise after floating around at the bottom of the table all of last season. Currently they sit in third place, but it is only three matches in so far. Still, I didn't expect this.

Saint-Etienne are going to make me eat my words after they defeated Narbonne this afternoon. Okay, they didn't impress, but a win is a win, right? The entire club's scoring threat came from a single player, Alexandre Péclier, as he scored 24 points lifting his small club to victory over a former Top 14 club. He is definitely my pick for player of the week.

 

[M Two One]

I would to see more input in this thread. I know there are some French members on the forum. If you guys watch lower leagues and/or attend matches please feel free to discuss. Here are some quick updates to Pro D2 and Fédérale 1:

Four matches into the season Albi is still first in Pro D2. So far they've had no issues with their opposition. I would to see more input in this thread. I know there are some French members on the forum. If you guys watch lower leagues and/or attend matches please feel free to discuss. Here are some quick updates to Pro D2 and Fédérale 1:

Four matches into the season Albi is still first in Pro D2. So far they've had no issues with their opposition. Lyon and Oyonnax currently trail closely. Pau has moved down the table, but it is early and I still believe that they'll be there in the playoff. There was a draw over the weekend between Grenoble and Bordeaux-Bègles. Seven teams are at the bottom of the table with only one win and it looks like it will be a long and difficult season for Aix-en-Provence as well as Saint-Etienne. The latter having won last weekend with an incredible display from a single player. That will not spare them week in and week out.

In group 1 in Fédérale 1, Bobigny lead the way only two matches in. Bourg-en-Bresse and Orléans are close behind and expect those two to finish on top. In group 2 Béziers are in first place, which is expected, but don't look at them to return to the professional leagues by next season. Valence d'Agen and Montauban are in second and third respectively. Grasse and Graulhet have been disappointing so far with both sitting at the bottom of the table. Graulhet should turn things around soon enough though. In group 3 there are no surprises so far with Périgueux and Limoges leading the way. In group 4 Castanet continue to impress and surprise this season. They were relegation candidates the previous season when they were promoted from Fédérale 2, but proved everyone wrong. Tyrosse are currently in second and former powerhouse Lourdes are in fourth and may be looking to finally turn their luck around. Lannemezan and Cahors have been disappointing early on, but should compete strongly as the season builds steam.

 

[tinchy17]

Bordeaux played Saracens in pre season and oh **** didn't they give us a fright. We only won by 5 points, so I think they'll be in the Top 14 next season.

 

[TRF_Cymro]

Lyon have bags of cash if im correct ... so expect them to be there or there abouts at the end of the season.

 

[M Two One]

Lyon really need a new stadium as their current one holds less than 5,000 spectators. They have the cash and the supporters to fill more seats, so why not spend a little? An update to Fédérale 1, just a few matches into the season and things are quite competitive. Bourg-en-Bresse are still struggling in group 1, while Massy lead the way. Nevers are currently in second and are exceeding my expectations of them so far. No surprises in group 2 with Béziers, Montauban, Valence d'Agen and Blagnac in the top four. La Seyne are not far out and it is early. In group 3, it looks like Périgueux are already looking like promotion candidates. They lead their group undefeated through four with a +152 in points difference. Limoges are disappointing in third and have been struggling defensively. Tyrosse are dominating a tough group 4 and are undefeated through five matches. Castanet and Lourdes have been surprising so far as they sit in second and third place respectively. Saint-Jean-de-Luz are in fourth with Lannemezan just behind them.

 

[Amobokoboko]

It seems I'm missing out on some great stuff. Unfortunately I haven't had the chance to watch a game.

 

[Melhor Time]

Lyon

Lyon really need a new stadium as their current one holds less than 5,000 spectators. They have the cash and the supporters to fill more seats, so why not spend a little?

They will build a new stadium. This was brought up last season when Lyon almost made the Top 14. They recently hosted Grenoble at Stade Gerland which is 40,000 and hosted three matches at Rugby World Cup 2007. In the match vs Grenoble, Lyon got over 32,000 fans a sign of what is to come in 2011 when Lyon will surely join the Top 14. If they are able to do okay and survive in the Top 14, which they should given the cities size and the teams resources, then I think they will get a similar venue to Montpellier but will still relocate to Gerland for several matches a year.



[video=dailymotion;xf7hqf]http://www.dailymotion.com/video/xf7hqf_lou-grenoble-a-gerland_sport[/video]

 

[M Two One]

That's good to know. LOU have solid resources, but we'll have to see if they can make it to the Top 14. The competition this season in Pro D2 has been fiercer than I've ever seen before and there will definitely be a lot of teams (as many as 10!) in the mix for promotion. Albi have been leading Pro D2 for a few weeks now, but they haven't really been dominant. Only six points separate teams ranked from fourth to eleventh at the moment. I'm sure that will change and a few will drop off as the season wears on, but this shows how competitive it has been so far.

This week I want to point out a team for you all to keep an eye on this season. Stade Phocéen (formerly Marseille Vitrolles Rugby) made a splash last season when they signed Jonah Lomu, but they eventually ran into financial difficulties and ended up being forcibly relegated. With a new image the team has been revived. Jonah Lomu decided to stay on board and with some new signings I figured they would surely help the team gain promotion to Fédérale 1 by the end of this season. However, I did not expect them to be as good as they are. Stade Phocéen is sitting at the top of the table with 8 wins out of 8 games and have scored 357 points while only allowing 28! It may be early in the season, but these stats are massive. Today they racked up a big win over Vinay with a final score of 69 to 6, so keep an eye on this club! Barring another financial breakdown, this team could be in Pro D2 within two or three seasons.

To Fédérale 1 results:

The groups in the third division are starting to unravel to show us what teams will contend for professional rugby in Pro D2 next season. In group 1 there has not been a dominant team, but five teams have been consistent and are shaking things up. US Bressane are disappointing, but they could still compete for a spot in the next round for the Jean Prat trophy. Bobigny and Massy are leading the way, both picking up wins this weekend. Montluçon, Nevers and Dijon are not far behind and will also be in the mix. Outside of those six teams, the other half is hopeless. Orléans are in sixth, but are inconsistent. I expect them to drop down the table soon enough. Mâcon have an outside chance, but I see them finishing mid-table. Finally, unless Suresnes and Cergy-Pontoise can turn things around immediately, both teams can punch their tickets back down to Fédérale 2. Remember that the bottom three (four in group 4) will be automatically relegated!

In group 2 Béziers are looking good. The team has been leading this tough group most of the way and will likely finish on top. It is incredible that they even dropped this far in the French rugby chain to begin with. Nice have been steadily climbing the table with a nice win over Montauban this weekend. Valence d'Agen have been a massive disappointment as they sit third from the bottom. I originally had them in the top four, but it looks like something is wrong here. Lavaur are looking great and could be a big surprise. I originally had them finishing mid-table, but they currently sit in second tied with Béziers with 24 points. Blagnac are continuing their revival after financial problems sent them down to the fourth division a few years ago and I expect them to finish in the top four. Graulhet and Grasse sit at the bottom of this group. I think just about everyone had Graulhet finishing in the top half of this group, but they've been awful. What a shame.

In group 3 Périgueux continue to dominate averaging 38 points per game, but Limoges have begun their expected climb to the top. The rest of the group is also predictable. Vannes, Marmande, Langon and Saint Nazaire make out the rest of the top half. It may be early, but they're all pretty much in order except I originally had Périgueux swapped with Limoges at the top. Saint Médard should finish sixth or seventh by the end of the season while four out of the other five teams will battle it out to avoid relegation. Tours will finish at the bottom of the group.

In group 4 Tyrosse suffered their first loss of the season this weekend against Oloron. Tyrosse still sit at the top of the table five points ahead of second place Castanet and will likely remain there for the rest of this phase of the season. Oloron sit in fifth place and have finally come back to life after two mediocre seasons. Lille have been a surprise and have mixed things up in the top half of this tough group. Former French powerhouse Lourdes will be looking for promotion after decades in the lower leagues, but will have to be more consistent. Currently in sixth, a win this weekend over Castanet is a good start to help establish a top four finish. Basque teams Saint Jean de Luz and Mauléon have been playing better this season and could both finish mid-table or possibly higher. Cahors are the biggest disappointment this season for me as I had them placed third and they are second from the bottom! I believe they will avoid relegation by season's end, but this season is definitely a big blow to their supporters. I'm almost certain that Orthez, Morlaàs and Tournefeuille will be relegated, but the fourth team to join them is still up in the air.

 

[M Two One]

I hear crickets chirping.

 

[Dougydeluxe]

I am going on exhcange to Grenoble this january and would love your imput M Two One.

First what games should I be attending... Ones with good history between Grenoble and opposition.

Also is there anything I should know about D2.

Finaly, how much does beer cost at D2 games or does it change based on the stadium?

 

[Amobokoboko]

Hi mate,

Good to hear you're heading to France to taste the life over there.
I went to a couple of pre-season games in the South of France in 2004 and 2005. I think a pastis was at that time 2,5-3 EUR. In summer the ultimate drink. I would advice you to have a look around and if T14 tickets aren't that expensive just try to attempt some of them.
Good atmo, good looking French girls and you will have lots of fun.

Good luck

 

[M Two One]

I am going on exhcange to Grenoble this january and would love your imput M Two One.

First what games should I be attending... Ones with good history between Grenoble and opposition.

Also is there anything I should know about D2.

Finaly, how much does beer cost at D2 games or does it change based on the stadium?

Hey Dougy,

Good to know you'll be spending time in France. I hope you'll enjoy it as much as I did and hopefully will again in the near future. My wife is originally from France, so that should tell you something! Keep an open mind over there. Be sure to visit every bit of the city and some nearby villages as much as you can.

So, on to rugby; FC Grenoble is a good team to support if you're looking for a French club. First off you'll love Stade Lesdiguières. I suggest looking into the club's history as it is quite interesting. They had long been known as premier rugby side until 1999 when they suffered an epic collapse and eventually slipped into the amateur division. Over the past four years there has been a resurgence and they are now in contention for top flight rugby.

Some matches to catch from January onward are listed below.

Weekend of January 15/16: Grenoble v Tarbes
Notes: I added this one because Tarbes are a good team and it is the earliest quality match for you to catch. If you're looking to attend a few matches, this should be an interesting one to add to your list.

Weekend of February 19/20: Grenoble v Lyon OU
Notes: This is the grand daddy of the season. It is a home match and if you're only going to one, let this be it! They are rivals so be sure to purchase tickets early. Wear your colors!

Weekend of April 2/3: Grenoble v Oyonnax
Notes: This one isn't at home, but if you have the chance to travel you should attend it. Oyonnax is in the same region of France and is about two hours drive from Grenoble. Think of this as a way to view one of the most beautiful regions of France because you will see a lot on your way. You could make stops in Lyon and even cross into Switzerland when you're in Oyonnax to see Geneva. If you want to take public transportation, access the TGV website. There are connecting stops and the full price would only be about 25 €.

Weekend of April 16/17: Grenoble v Aurillac
Notes: The Alpine club against the Massif Central club. Okay they aren't actually big rivals, but at this point in the season important points will be on the line for two clubs that will likely both be hotly competing for a spot in the top five. Do not miss this match!

Sunday May 8: Grenoble v Pau
Notes: This one is also not at home, but there are two good reasons to attend. For one, this is the last match of the season for both clubs and it will all likely be vital. Second, if you ever get the chance to travel far be sure to go visit Pau and the Pyrénées. You will love it. Spring is beautiful in this region so take a leap if you have the finances to do so. A trip to Pau with the TGV is quite pricey and will cost you 120 €, so consider traveling with a group if there are discounts.

Some things to know about the Pro D2? It is a high quality league so keep track! Ticket prices aren't high in my opinion, so plan a few matches for your schedule. There are one or two weekly matches on regular TV in France, so you'll get your fix from around the country to go along with plenty of Top 14 rugby. If you want to watch more rugby matches live, but are strapped for cash check out the clubs from Fédérale 1.

Finally, I'm not sure about the beer prices, sorry. In any case, I hope that this information has helped but don't be afraid to ask any other questions.

 

[Dougydeluxe]

That was more than enough information, thanks again to both you guys for the information. I plan to attend at least two games, but I am also a big skier so it will be hard for me to make more if the snow is coming down like champagne. Now all I have to do is fine a couple of rugby fans and Ski bums and this exchange will be one for the ages.

 

[Amobokoboko]

I hope you will have a great time.

 

[Groundhog]

im up for narbonne ive got a house there and remember seeing them beat tuolouse when i was younger

 

[lucky number 7]

Grenoble would be the closest to my grandparents and so they are my team for D1