La Rochelle continued their recent resurgence yesterday, playing some fantastic rugby en route to a 22-21 Champions Cup last 16 victory over Stormers in Cape Town.
It was a stern test for the defending champions, who certainly did not have things all their own way over the course of the 80 minutes. In fact, they would find themselves 16-0 down at one stage. They would go on to complete an impressive comeback, with this second half try from Joel Scalvi proving to be the difference between the sides.
I𝐧c𝐫e𝐝i𝐛l𝐞 𝐩o𝐰e𝐫 from Joel Sclavi 💥
Another powerful drive from @staderochelais to extend their lead 🏉#STOvSR | #InvestecChampionsCup pic.twitter.com/YbrnpVtddl— Rugby on TNT Sports (@rugbyontnt) April 6, 2024
Ronan O'Gara's men will now face Leinster in the quarter-final next Saturday evening, with the Aviva Stadium set to host the rematch of last year's final.
READ HERE: O'Gara Bringing La Rochelle To Cork For A Week To Plot Leinster's Downfall
Rugby: Will Skelton praised for remarkable moment of sportsmanship
Will Skelton played a key role for La Rochelle once again yesterday, with the big Australian starring in the back row against Stormers.
While his performance was an impressive one, it was a moment of fantastic sportsmanship during the second half of the game that has won him plenty of plaudits.
The incident occurred after Stormers captain Salmaan Moerat went down with an apparent head injury when he attempted to tackle the 31-year old. As the play continued around him, Skelton would shield the opposition player from any potential contact in order to ensure his safety on the pitch.
You can watch the incident below.
This is class from Will Skelton, protecting an injured opponentpic.twitter.com/z0D7bHSqIZ
— Balls.ie (@ballsdotie) April 6, 2024
A very classy move.
One of the most widely admired players in world rugby, Will Skelton received plenty of praise for his actions on this occasion.
I’m almost sure this is not the first time Will Skelton has done this.
Incredible awareness in the heat of a high pressure game. Class Will. 👏 pic.twitter.com/U64RwBoq8i— Jared Wright (@jaredwright17) April 6, 2024
Will Skelton should win the Champions Cup, the Top 14 and the Stanley Cup for this. So wonderful to see this level of awareness, concern, and virtue on the field. https://t.co/YbUPGUkaEr
— David Deane (@ddeanetheology) April 6, 2024
In an era of sports where there is always a 'win at all costs' mentality this is lovely and fulfilling to see. I genuinely wish I could shake Will Skelton's hand after this gesture. https://t.co/iCktlo28oC
— Riaz 🇿🇦🇵🇸🔰 (@RiazHamed2) April 7, 2024
Not for the first time, fair play to him.
— James Brennan (@jbrennan9929) April 6, 2024
This was a fantastic moment from Skelton, who will now quickly shift his focus to the showdown with Leinster next weekend.
Ronan O'Gara is set to bring his team to Cork for a training camp ahead of that fixture, with their rivalry with the Irish province quickly becoming one of fiercest in European rugby.
SEE ALSO: 6 Foreign Imports To Irish Rugby That Didn't Work Out
