French Rugby Club Narbonne almost scored the ‘try of the century’ in a recent match against Bourg-en-Bresse in the French third division, Championnat Fédéral Nationale, only to be denied at the last second in heartbreaking fashion. The thrilling sequence began with full-back Boris Goutard collecting a deep kick inside the Narbonne in-goal area. What followed was a display of incredible teamwork, as the players engaged in a series of offloads and evasions just five meters from their own try line. Fijian player Luke Nakobukobua then made a dazzling break on the right flank, setting the stage for what appeared to be a historic try.
Despite the remarkable effort, scrumhalf Pierrick Nova was tackled by an opponent just as he was about to score, losing control of the ball as he crossed the line. The referee ruled out the try, leaving the Narbonne team and fans stunned. While Narbonne ultimately secured a bonus point victory with a 34-17 win, they missed out on what could have been a spectacular fifth point through this astonishing play. Coach Bryce Mach’s disbelief in the stands mirrored the sentiments of many, with Nova expressing his pride in the team’s audacious play despite the unfortunate outcome.
Nova shared his perspective on the near-miss, acknowledging the fine margins in rugby and the teasing he received from his teammates for falling just short. The scrumhalf’s focus remains on the team’s offensive bonus and making amends in future matches. Despite the disappointment of not converting the 100-metre restart into a try, the players can take pride in their daring approach and exceptional teamwork on display during this unforgettable moment.
The video of the near ‘try of the century’ quickly went viral, capturing the hearts of rugby fans worldwide. The sequence of play exemplified the beauty and excitement of the sport, showcasing the skill and determination of the Narbonne team. Though the outcome may not have been the desired one, the players’ resilience and camaraderie serve as a testament to their spirit and sportsmanship.
Rugby enthusiasts and casual fans alike were left in awe by Narbonne’s incredible effort, sparking discussions and celebrations of the team’s skill and creativity on the field. As the rugby community reflects on this unforgettable moment, it serves as a reminder of the unpredictable and thrilling nature of the sport. Despite the last-second disappointment, the Narbonne players can take pride in knowing that they came close to achieving something truly remarkable, leaving a lasting impact on the game and those who witnessed their extraordinary display of talent and teamwork.