“This match against Aix is ​​a big meeting to build the rest of the season,” assures Branden Holder, the Béziers center

ASBH center admits he enjoys playing alongside Taleta Tupuola. Midi Libre – Laurent François

This Friday at the Raoul-Barrière stadium (9 p.m.), Branden Holder, the South African center of ASBH, expects to face an XXL Provence rugby team.

What has changed in your team between the defeat against BO and the victory at Valence Romans ?

The defeat against BO was a good slap in the face, as is sometimes needed at the start of the season. We had confidence in our pre-season preparation, everything had gone well. But there were details to be found and it is often in defeats that we learn. And we learned a lot against Biarritz. This should be useful to us against the other teams, like against Aix, this Friday.

Knowing that your team will be seeking revenge having lost twice last season against Provence Rugby…

This week, we have indeed talked about it a lot. Béziers has played seven times against Aix and lost six times. But as I repeat, we must stay in the present. What happened last year will not help us win or lose this match. Aix is ​​a big team that wants to move up to the Top 14 and has the financial means to do so. But that's not what's going to make them win this match…

What were your team's areas of work this week ?

It's going to be a big fight in defense. Aix can defend during several phases. They'll have to keep the ball and stay patient, especially near the end zone. It's going to be a high-level match. We will have the right to make mistakes, but we must not make many against a team of such a level.

How do you feel about finding yourself, in the center, alongside Taleta Tupuola ?

I have a lot of relationships with him on and off the field. I played against him and I never liked having him in front of me because he is a machine. I am happy now to have him on the field with me. He is someone who teaches me a lot. I enjoy being with him and I hope to be able to do some great things alongside him.

Isn't this match a turning point for your team??

Facing teams that are aiming for the Top 14, it's always a benchmark match. This will be one. It will be a great meeting to build the rest of the season.