La Rochelle win at Toulon to maintain unbeaten start

La Rochelle extended their strong start to the Top 14 with a second successive victory, this time away to Toulon. The result follows their win over Toulouse and confirms the Maritimes as an early force, while Toulon are still waiting for their first success of the campaign.

La Rochelle prevailed 21-20 at Stade Mayol after a match shaped by missed chances and repeated errors. Antoine Hastoy supplied important points from the tee, while Jack Nowell and Watisoni Waqanisaravi crossed for tries. Toulon replied through Mateo Garcia, Mathis Ferté and Baptiste Serin, with Melvyn Jaminet adding points from the boot.

The visitors led by one point after Hastoy converted a penalty following pressure from Grégory Alldritt. Toulon had opportunities to turn the contest around, but both teams struggled with their goal-kicking and handling in the final stages. La Rochelle held on despite the late uncertainty to claim another notable away result.

Ronan O’Gara’s side now face Racing 92 next weekend as they try to preserve this winning momentum. Toulon, coached by Franck Azéma, will seek to launch their season at Castres after two defeats.