Dax vs Stade Aurillacois on 13 February
The upcoming clash between Dax and Stade Aurillacois in the France rugby tournament on 13 February promises to be a thrilling encounter. Both teams come into this match with points at stake, and the atmosphere at Stade Maurice Boyau in Dax will undoubtedly be charged. For Dax, the pressure to maintain their position in the standings looms large, while Stade Aurillacois will be aiming to close the gap and push up the league table. Both sides have been grappling with key injuries, but their tactical setups will play a crucial role in deciding the outcome of this contest. Weather conditions are expected to be mild, with little to no wind, allowing for fast-paced rugby.
Dax: Tactical Approach and Current Form
Dax enters this match with a mixed bag of results in their last five games, registering two wins, two losses, and a draw. The team has struggled to find consistent form, especially in their defensive setup. Dax primarily relies on a strong forward pack to win set-piece battles, but their breakdowns have been inconsistent, leading to turnovers and a lack of fluidity in attack. Their tactical setup is based around a tight, forward-heavy game plan, with an emphasis on dominating the scrums and mauls to gain territory. However, they’ve been unable to convert pressure into points in recent outings, which has been their Achilles' heel. With an average of 12 turnovers per game, Dax’s discipline at the breakdowns will be crucial in this match.
Key players to watch include fly-half Thomas Lagrange, who is the engine of their attack, and back-row forward Hugo Reix, whose work rate and tackling ability can provide stability in key moments. However, Dax will be without their key lock forward, Benoit Girard, due to injury, which could impact their lineout efficiency.
Stade Aurillacois: Tactical Approach and Current Form
Stade Aurillacois comes into this match with a solid record in their last five games, having won three and lost two. Their tactical approach has been based around a more expansive, back-line driven game, with a particular focus on counter-attacking rugby. Their ability to exploit the wide channels has seen them score some excellent tries, especially from deep. They tend to use their agile back-three, led by full-back Antoine Rech, to break defensive lines and create space out wide. However, they are vulnerable in tight contests, particularly at the breakdown, where their forwards have been under pressure in recent matches.
The form of their star fly-half, Vincent Mallet, has been exceptional, with his kicking game and decision-making playing a pivotal role in their success. Mallet’s ability to manage the game and maintain possession will be key to Stade Aurillacois' chances. They will also be hoping for strong performances from their loosehead prop, Sébastien Couzinet, who can provide them with a solid foundation in set-piece engagements.
Head-to-Head: History and Psychology
The last few encounters between these two teams have been closely contested, with Stade Aurillacois edging out Dax in the most recent matchups. In their last five meetings, Stade Aurillacois have won three, while Dax has claimed two victories. The most notable recent match was a narrow 23-21 win for Stade Aurillacois in the 2025 season, where a last-minute penalty from Mallet sealed the victory. Historically, these two teams have traded wins, with both sides capable of turning the tide on home soil. This season’s matchup will be crucial for Dax, as they are desperate to reverse the trend and gain momentum against Stade Aurillacois.
Key Battles and Critical Zones
The scrum battle will be one of the most critical areas to watch in this match. Dax has a formidable front row, and with Stade Aurillacois’ recent issues at the scrum, Dax’s forwards will look to dominate in this phase to provide a platform for their attack. Another key battle will be at the breakdown, where both teams have struggled with consistency. Dax, particularly, will need to tighten their discipline to prevent Stade Aurillacois from capitalizing on turnovers. Finally, the battle between the two fly-halves, Lagrange for Dax and Mallet for Stade Aurillacois, will be pivotal in controlling the tempo and dictating the game. Both are experienced playmakers with the ability to change the course of the match with their kicking and decision-making.
The wide channels will also be an area of exploitation, especially for Stade Aurillacois, whose back-line speed can overwhelm Dax if given space. Dax will need to close down those attacking options and keep Stade Aurillacois on the back foot to prevent them from getting into rhythm.
Match Scenario and Prediction
In this contest, Dax will aim to dominate upfront, using their forwards to gain territory and pressure Stade Aurillacois in set-piece situations. However, Stade Aurillacois' ability to play an expansive game and exploit the wide channels will be key to their success. If Dax can maintain discipline at the breakdown and win the scrum battle, they will have a good chance of grinding out a win. Stade Aurillacois, on the other hand, will need to control the tempo and impose their kicking game, with Mallet crucial in executing tactical kicks to gain territory and put pressure on Dax's defense. Expect a closely fought match, with Stade Aurillacois likely to edge it if their backs can find space.
Prediction: Stade Aurillacois to win by 5-7 points. Key metrics to watch include territory gained, scrums won, and turnovers conceded. Dax’s ability to limit Stade Aurillacois’ counter-attacking opportunities will be vital to keeping the match close.
Final Thoughts
This match will be a test of discipline and tactical execution. Can Dax tighten their breakdowns and capitalize on their scrum dominance, or will Stade Aurillacois exploit the wide channels to secure an important victory? The key factors will be possession and discipline in the set pieces. One question will linger: Can Dax’s forwards impose themselves against Stade Aurillacois’ more fluid back-line, or will the visitors’ attack prove too much for Dax to handle?
