Clermont overcome Stade Francais as Bordeaux-Begles hold Montpellier

Clermont Auvergne returned to winning ways in the Top 14 as Jake McIntyre’s fine kicking propelled them to a 32-18 victory at struggling Stade Francais.

The home side took the lead four minutes in, though McIntyre – who tallied 22 points – immediately pulled Clermont level with a penalty, before two more three-pointers in quick succession nosed the visitors further ahead.

Joris Segonds responded with a penalty of his own, though Adrien Lapegue’s yellow card swiftly took the wind out of Stade Francais’ sails.

European Challenge Cup winners Clermont were reduced to 14 when Sitaleki Timani was sent to the sin bin on the stroke of half-time – Stade Francais taking advantage as Kylan Hamdaoui claimed the game’s first try.

But Clermont took control after the restart, Samuel Ezeala and Fritz Lee going over in quick succession, with more accurate kicking from McIntyre ensuring Jonathan Danty’s try was no more than a consolation as last season’s runners up earned a first win in three matches.

#TOP14 | J5

C’est l’heure du bilan c’est l’heure du classement ! pic.twitter.com/KE22Wvjtdb

— TOP 14 Rugby (@top14rugby) September 29, 2019

Earlier, Bordeaux-Begles maintained their unbeaten start to the campaign draw with a 17-17 draw at Montpellier.

Martin Devergie’s 69th-minute try and a penalty from Anthony Bouthier looked set to claim the points for Montpellier, but second-placed Bordeaux battled back.

Ben Botica’s penalty four minutes from time secured a share of the spoils, with Bordeaux heading to league leaders Lyon, who they are two points shy of, next time out.

KEO.co.za News wire is powered by opta