Damian Penaud receives harsh verdict after UBB defeat

Bordeaux-Begles’ problems on the road have deepened, while Damian Penaud has been singled out after an ineffective performance at Perpignan. The France winger received the lowest mark of the match, with his display judged a major example of UBB’s lack of precision in attack.

UBB lost 38-25 at Aimé-Giral in the opening match of the Top 14’s fourth round. It was their second away defeat of the season, following a 48-12 loss at Toulouse two weeks earlier. The result continued a difficult early run outside Bordeaux, although no league table position was provided.

Penaud was reliable on some high balls but was beaten too easily while defending the move that led to Forner’s try. He also struggled under pressure when receiving a restart and failed to deal cleanly with another kick. After half-time, he allowed an opposition kick to go out while appearing to consider a possible 50-22, then sent an imprecise pass towards Rayasi.

His final attacking contribution was also criticised after he chose to kick ahead rather than keep possession, allowing Perpignan to regain control through a 50-22 from Tedder. Penaud was expected to provide leadership in an UBB backline missing Matthieu Jalibert through injury, while Louis Bielle-Biarrey and Yoram Moefana were rested. Maxime Lucu, who started, also endured a difficult afternoon and was rated 4/10.