US Colomiers clinch the showdown and climb onto the podium before Christmas

Friday, December 19, 2025 – Stade Michel-Bendichou
Pro D2 – Round 15
US Colomiers 24 – 10 Valence-Romans Drôme Rugby
(Half-time: 7-0)

In a highly anticipated clash to close the first half of the season, US Colomiers delivered a controlled performance against a Valence-Romans side that had been riding a five-match winning streak. The Columérins secured a 24–10 victory and move up to second place in the provisional standings, behind Vannes, just ahead of the Christmas break.

A one-sided first half

In front of a supportive crowd at Stade Michel-Bendichou, the home side imposed their rhythm from the opening minutes. Strong at set piece and dominant in the breakdown, they controlled possession and applied constant pressure on the Damiers.

After several attacking phases without reward, the breakthrough came in the 28th minute. Following a fluid move from right to left, winger Grégoire Bazin finished in the corner. Théo Giral converted to give Colomiers a 7–0 lead at the break. Despite their recent momentum, Valence-Romans were unable to break through the home defence in the first half.

A more contested second half

After the restart, the visitors attempted to respond. Lucas Méret put Valence-Romans on the scoreboard with a penalty in the 49th minute (7–3), but Colomiers quickly replied through the boot of Théo Giral (10–3).

The turning point came around the hour mark. Following an interception in midfield, the Colomiers attack moved the ball at pace, allowing Matias Osadczuk to run in under the posts. The try was converted to extend the lead to 17–3.

Valence-Romans did not give up. In the 73rd minute, the visitors closed the gap with a well-executed maul try finished by Sacha Idoumi (17–10 after conversion).

The closing minutes were tense. Colomiers had to defend with 13 players following several yellow cards, including one shown to Ben Neiceru in the 79th minute. Despite the pressure, the home side maintained their composure. In the final minute, Alberto Carmona sealed the win with a try in the corner, converted by Théo Giral to make it 24–10 at full time.

A valuable win before the break

Built on solid defence and efficiency at key moments, US Colomiers finish the first half of the season with a statement victory and move onto the podium ahead of the winter break. Head coach Ugo Séguéla’s men delivered a disciplined performance, particularly up front.

Valence-Romans see their winning run come to an end but remain firmly placed in the upper part of the table ahead of the league’s return in January.

Tries

Colomiers: Bazin (28’), Osadczuk (61’), Carmona (80’+1)
Valence-Romans: Idoumi (73’)

Players of the Match (Colomiers)

Grégoire Bazin, Raymond Nu’u, Matias Osadczuk, Théo Giral

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