Despite the victory against Italy, the XV of France did not shine for its entry into the running in the Six Nations Tournament. The coach of the Blues Fabien Galthié admitted in a press conference at the end of the match that his team was in difficulty this Sunday in Italy and intends to “rectify the situation”.
The XV of France began its 2023 Six Nations Tournament with a laborious victory in Italy (29-24): “a mixed performance, which leaves us with a slightly bitter taste”, analyzed coach Fabien Galthié after the meeting. The Blues will have to “rectify the situation” next Saturday in Ireland.
Journalist: How do you come out of such a match?
Fabien Galthié: “Both satisfied to have won this match and to have taken the offensive bonus. But it was hard. It’s a mixed performance, which leaves us with a slightly bitter taste. The victory is so important at that level, whatever the scenario. It’s the key, it’s essential. We haven’t achieved all our objectives, but I’m not a scamp. The game sometimes demands fault, we have the right to not always be on top.”
Journalist: Eighteen penalties, is that too much at this level?
Fabien Galthié: “Obviously. Each time, it’s a new possession for the opponent, we move back thirty meters. We have moved back a lot. Mastering the rule on the offensive or defensive level is something that cost us dearly. It took away a lot of strength from our collective performance.”
Journalist: What is the contribution of the bench?
Journalist: “They made a very good start at a time when we were trailing. We took this yellow card, we had to do something. We made choices to coach in important positions. That’s what What do finishers do: they have the heavy task of finishing matches. They’re the ones who win, or at least try. It happened (smile). After the match, we ate pizzas, the Italians arrived very quickly to exchange. We discussed but without making hot speeches.