Americas Rugby News Rugby news from across the Americas!
The tension is rising with only four weeks left in the Pro D2 regular season, and two spots in the 2017-18 Top 14 up for grabs. Oyonnax is in pole position but could not do enough against Biarritz on Thursday to get the win. The 16-13 result would have been disappointing for skipper Jamie Cudmore but at least his side picked up a losing bonus point, which guarantees their spot at the top of the table for at least another week.
Chief rivals Agen are also on the road this week as they travel to Angoulême. Taylor Paris will look to inspire the side from his usual left wing spot, with US-eligible Dave Ryan at tighthead prop. Charente defend their position with Sebastián Poet at flyhalf though countrymate Facundo Panceyra Garrido must settle for a spot on the bench.
Mont-de-Marsan can take a big leap forward if they can get a win at Bourgoin. Argentine prop duo Carlos Muzzio and Jerónimo Negrotto will start for the playoff contenders. Bourgoin are already assured of relegation to Fédérale 1 next season and are now playing for pride. Leandro Pérez Galeone runs out on the flank while Nicolás Mirande is named as a reserve prop.
Another side in contention is Colomiers who have a tricky match at Vannes but will do so without any of their Americas players this week. The home team start Eric Fry at loosehead prop with Javier Lagioiosa in the second row and Conor Trainor among the replacements.
Solo selections see Damian Arias at tighthead prop for Montauban at Béziers, and Lucas Martínez covering the same position for Albi off the bench at Aurillac. Uruguay’s lone representative Felipe Berchesi starts at outside centre for Carcassonne at Dax.
Narbonne have yet to name their side for Sunday’s match against Perpignan. Versatile US Eagles forward David Tameilau is among those in contention to take part.
