Castres: Sadourny pleased by strong summer preparation

Castres will begin the new Top 14 season with Xavier Sadourny encouraged by the team’s progress during the summer. After finishing 10th last season, the club has shown signs of greater cohesion following a substantial squad renewal, although the coach insists the preparation is only an early indication.

Castres won both warm-up matches, beating Montauban 31-7 before overcoming Montpellier 50-33. Sadourny was pleased with the team’s defensive commitment, collective spirit and efficiency when entering the opposition 22. He also believes the players and staff have developed a positive understanding during the build-up.

The coach identified Montpellier’s mauls and other carried-ball situations as a weakness, particularly during the first half. Castres improved in that area after the interval, but the side still has work to do before the competitive campaign begins.

Castres will host promoted Vannes in the opening round on Saturday, 5 August. Sadourny wants his players to control the excitement and pressure surrounding the fixture while maintaining the standards shown in pre-season. His main targets are greater consistency, improved discipline, stronger defence, better efficiency and progress in the set piece and territorial game.