Spedding inspires Castres to victory in Top 14 final repeat

Scott Spedding scored a debut double as Castres started the defence of their Top 14 title with a 25-20 defeat of Montpellier, almost three months after beating them in last season’s final.

Christophe Urios’ side shocked a star-studded Montpellier team to be crowned French champions in June and they pulled off a repeat at Altrad Stadium on Sunday.

France full-back Spedding, signed on a one-year deal following his release by Clermont Auvergne, scored in each half and came up with a try-saving tackle on Vincent Martin in an outstanding bow.

Johan Goosen, Montpellier’s high-profile new recruit, and Benjamin Urdapilleta – who booted Castres to victory with 19 points in the 2017/18 decider – exchanged penalties before Martin Devergie stormed over for the opening try.

An absorbing contest was nicely poised at 13-13 at the break after Spedding dotted down following a powerful run from Alex Tulou.

Castres started strongly after the break, Rodrigo Capo Ortega crossing after great work from Spedding, who had a brace to his name eight minutes later.

Paul Willemse’s try, which Goosen converted to take his tally to 10 points, reduced the deficit but Castres held on despite Camille Gerondeau’s late yellow card. 

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