“We are two matches away from paradise,” assures Robert Ménard, the mayor of Béziers

Robert Ménard confirms that he is in discussions with potential buyers of the club. Midi Libre – MICHAEL ESDOURRUBAILH

Robert Ménard, the mayor of Béziers, looks back on ASBH's victory against Brive (33-31) and explains how he is preparing a possible rise for the club in the Top 14.

How did you experience this match??

I was very stressed. I no longer enjoy watching the matches because I am so anxious, I am so afraid for the team! Even a French team match never does that to me. With France, I don't breathe, I don't worry, I'm not worried, I don't sweat the same way.

What did you say to the players after the match?

I told them "thank you, thank you, thank you" ! Thank you for what they did, for their commitment, for their determination. They are the ones who fill the stadium, who make us dream. I don’t remember such a beautiful season. There was a mini fireworks display at the end. I decided to have it drawn, even if they had lost, because I wanted to thank them for their journey, to express our gratitude to them.

Did you doubt ?

Yes, I said to myself "we're going to lose". But I had the memory of the match against Nevers in mind and I said to myself, "there is going to be a miracle" ! And there was one.

What did you think of the atmosphere in the stadium?

It was magical. It was an incredible blast! There was communion. This sport encourages this osmosis. Everyone was breathing together. And then what emotion! I was very moved. When I fell into the arms of Pierre Caillet, at the end of the match, I thought about all the people who, in June 2023, asked me not to keep him. Today, and I am happy, he is showered with praise. The fact that this club is not privately owned allowed us to give it time. I had made a contract with him. I told him "if mid-season it doesn't work, you leave and we won't argue”.  He told me yes. Finally, he showed the extent of his talent.

Prepare yourself for a climb to the Top 14 ?

In Angoulême, in the locker room, a player said "this is only the beginning !" This match won against Brive n  ;rsquo;is not an outcome, it is indeed only the beginning. If we win in Vannes, at worst, then, even if we lose in Toulouse, against Provence Rugby or Grenoble, we will play against Montpellier. I don't know if I should say at worst…hellip; We are two matches away from paradise.

In what way?

I chat with people. I don’t talk about it. I am criticized for it, but I won't say anything because the discussions would be over if I spoke. In the Top 14, more money is needed. If we like Béziers and if we have it, at some point, we have to get together around the club. We all applauded. Now a certain number of people need to take out their checkbooks. Otherwise, where are we going?