"We're getting back into something great": RCT supporters impatient before the semi-final against Bordeaux-Bègles

RCT fans are flushed with joy. That's it, they've finished eating their black bread. By beating Castres last Saturday to reach the semi-finals, David Ribbans and his team gave them the opportunity to (re)experience a Top 14 semi-final - the first since 2017, a sign of the Var club's return to the forefront.

The supporters were hoping for this comeback like schoolchildren might wait for the summer holidays: "We've had a few years of struggle ," admits Christopher, a fervent supporter. "And when you come out of a complicated period, you savor a return to the forefront even more. Especially since today, we have the feeling that the club is stabilizing. It bodes well for the future."

"It's something that was missing."

After winning the Challenge Cup in 2023 and returning to the final phase of the championship last year, the Rouge et Noir have indeed reached a new milestone this season, by securing their ticket to the semi-final at the Groupama Stadium in Lyon.

"We are proud to rediscover this atmosphere, these matches where we see all of Toulon converge towards a large stadium. It's something that was missing," continues the member of the Fils de Besagne.

A member of the Z'acrau club, Virginie now has only one thing on her mind: to reach the capital of Gaul this Saturday. "It took the club time to reform, to rebuild. Will we be champions? I hope so. But, in any case, we always do better every year. And a semi-final is no small feat. There's real excitement at the idea of ​​traveling."

“Looking forward to getting back into the swing of things”

"We were spoiled during the Boudjellal era ," continues a Mayol regular. "Eight years without a semi-final is a long time. We had to be patient. But now, just by going to the stadium, we're back in something great, which brings back great memories."

Memories, the clash against Bordeaux-Bègles will be an opportunity to create new ones. And, for them to be beautiful, we'll have to look the European champions in the eye. "It's 50-50. Given what we've proven in the regular season, we have no need to have any hang-ups," says Patrick Fornet, a long-time supporter.

The same thing happens in the stands, where they'll be shouting even louder than the Girondins supporters. "Apparently, people had trouble finding seats ," Muriel points out. "Even if there aren't many of us, we'll get the party started, there's no problem. We can't wait to get back into the swing of things."

" And now, " Christopher concludes, "we only have one compass, which is to be on the train to the Stade de France a week later."