Toulouse return to top of Top 14 after Montpellier win

Toulouse have reclaimed first place in the Top 14, moving ahead of Lyon and Pau after defeating Montpellier. The result gives Ugo Mola’s side a third consecutive victory after their campaign began with a loss at La Rochelle.

The match was Toulouse’s response to the defeat in last season’s final, though the visitors had to manage early disciplinary problems. Teddy Thomas was shown a yellow card inside the opening two minutes for a deliberate knock-on, and Alexandre Roumat later spent 10 minutes off the field after a head-to-head collision with Arthur Vincent. Montpellier took advantage of the first period of pressure, but Toulouse’s defence held firm.

Théo Ntamack, Teddy Thomas and Romain Ntamack scored before half-time, while Antoine Dupont added two tries soon after the restart. Thomas crossed again later for his second of the match, following a kick from Romain Ntamack. Montpellier responded through Jon Echegaray and Lyam Akrab, but Toulouse maintained control and secured the result that lifted them back to the summit. Montpellier’s Wilfried Hounkpatin also received a yellow card after the break, giving Toulouse another opportunity to attack with an extra player.