How Mourillon managed to ensure its survival in Fédérale 3

It took until the final matchday, on April 6, for US Mourillon to secure their place in the league. By winning at the Fernandez Stadium (49-12) with a bonus against RC Cévenol (Alès), the Toulon team earned the right to continue at this level of the competition. But how difficult it was!

With six wins and twelve losses, USM struggled to secure their place in the league. And it ultimately came down to the unique points difference between Mouillon and Alés. The deficit conceded in the first leg (23-25) was ultimately largely offset by the Black and Green's success in the return leg. The performance against the Cévennes was undoubtedly the most accomplished for Nelson Battaglia's players.

For the immovable president Michel Grillo, "the objective of staying up has been achieved and it is a very nice reward for all the work done. We were up against big teams, with budgets much larger than ours. As a reminder, at USM, no player or coach is paid. Playing a leading role is very difficult. For next season, I am aware that the championship will be even more challenging. We will begin our sixth consecutive season in Fédérale 3, with the firm ambition of making our colors shine."

"A real source of pride"

Sporting director Geoffrey David, meanwhile, looks back on the season: "It's a mixed bag. At the start of the championship, we thought we'd have a more "serene" season, but we quickly realized that it would be complicated, especially against the big teams in the group. Staying in the league is therefore a real source of pride, especially since we saved the essentials thanks to the club's resources."

The player and captain is also looking to the future: "Many players in their thirties are finishing their rugby career. For the coming season, the few new recruits who will arrive will share playing time with young players from our training, who until now played with the juniors and the reserves."

For the next season, we will note the arrival of Nasser Boulassel, a former club player, as backline coach. As for the forwards, contacts are underway to find the right person.