SARugbymag.co.za looks back at the past weekend's French Top 14 playoff matches, involving South African players.
FRENCH TOP 14 QUALIFIER PLAYOFFS
– Racing, featuring Johan Goosen at outside centre, Antonie Claassen at No 8 and Bernard le Roux and Juandré Kruger in the second row, edged Toulouse 21-16 in Paris to reach the semi-finals for the first time in two years. Goosen landed a penalty from 50m out. Toulouse, who scored the only try of the match, had loosehead prop Gurthrö Steenkamp in their starting lineup.
– Like Racing, Montpellier booked their place in the semi-finals for the first time since 2014 with a 28-9 win over Castres. Flyhalf Demetri Catrakilis booted 13 points for Montpellier – two conversions and three penalties – while lock Paul Willemse and Pierre Spies scored a try apiece. The trio started alongside Frans Steyn (inside centre), Jacques du Plessis (lock) and Bismarck du Plessis (hooker) for the winners. Tighthead prop Jannie du Plessis was listed on the bench and came on as a sub in the 38th minute before being sent off in the 66th for foul play. Scrumhalf Rory Kockott started for Castres and kicked two second-half penalties.
Highlights: Montpellier vs Castres
Photo: Bertrand Langlois/Getty Images
