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For Vannes players and supporters the Top 14 dream is alive. Vannes traveled to Nevers for a barrage play-off. They returned home 20-17 winners to qualify for the Pro D2 Semi Finals.
Francisco Gorrissen captained Vannes to victory over Nevers. The Argentine was joined by Uruguayan captain Andrés Vilaseca in the starting line-up. Gorrissen has captained the Argentina XV and has three test caps for Los Pumas.
The second barrage play-off will be contested between Mont de Marsan and Agen. Argentina XV hooker José Luis González and Pumas center Lucas Mensa feature for Mont de Marsan. Taking place on Friday, the winning team will advance to face Grenoble in the other Semi Final. The Semi Finals will be played on Saturday, May 20 and the Pro D2 Final on Saturday, May 27.
Gorrissen, Vilaseca and Vannes will face Oyonnax in their Semi Final. Oyonnax finished the regular season comfortably at the top of the Pro D2. Lucas Mensa has signed for Oyonnax for next season. Meanwhile, Argentina XV N8 Juan Bautista Pedemonte and Uruguayan center Nicolás Freitas are expected back for Vannes for the Semi Final. Nicolás Freitas has been in talks with Top 14 clubs.
Americas Rugby News named Gorrissen as the leading Argentine in the Pro D2 for the 2022-2023 season. The flanker now has an opportunity to earn promotion to the Top 14. He also remains in the frame for a possible return to Los Pumas.
