Perpignan secured a crucial 40-24 victory over Pau in a Top 14 match on February 22nd, fueled by a dominant performance from veteran flyhalf Benjamin Urdapilleta. Despite a endeavor from Pau’s Julian Montoya, Perpignan controlled the game from start to finish, leveraging Urdapilleta’s precision kicking and tactical control to climb further away from the relegation zone.
The Argentinian playmaker was instrumental in Perpignan’s success, contributing 13 points through three penalties and two conversions. Jerónimo De la Fuente also made a significant impact, captaining the winning side. This win provides a much-needed boost for Perpignan, currently battling to avoid the bottom of the Top 14 standings.
Montoya’s early try offered a glimmer of hope for Pau, briefly tying the score, but the visitors were unable to maintain momentum against a determined Perpignan side. The result doesn’t alter the overall standings significantly, with Pau remaining in second place, but falling further behind league leaders Toulouse. Perpignan, meanwhile, creates a small amount of breathing room between themselves and the bottom-placed Montauban.
Urdapilleta, a seasoned Top 14 player, continues to demonstrate his value despite previously announcing his retirement. His arrival at Perpignan, described as a “last tour de piste,” has immediately bolstered the team’s attacking options and kicking accuracy. He is recognized as the second-best point scorer in Top 14 history and holds the record for most points scored in a single match with 33.
Top 14 Standings as of February 22, 2026
Here’s a look at the current Top 14 standings:
- Toulouse – 62 pts
- Pau – 51 pts
- Bordeaux – 50 pts
- Montpellier – 48 pts
- Clermont – 46 pts
- Racing 92 – 45 pts
- Stade Français – 44 pts
- Toulon – 43 pts
- Castres – 41 pts
- Lyon – 37 pts
- La Rochelle – 37 pts
- Bayonne – 36 points
- Perpignan – 18 points
- Montauban – 7 pts
Urdapilleta’s Continued Impact
Benjamin Urdapilleta’s statistics for the 2025/2026 season with Perpignan demonstrate his ongoing contribution. As of February 22nd, he has appeared in 7 Top 14 matches, scoring 45 points. AllRugby.com details his performance, highlighting his consistent ability to add points through penalties and conversions.
The 39-year-old Argentinian international has a long and decorated career, having previously played for Clermont, Castres, and Harlequins, among other clubs. His All.Rugby profile showcases his extensive experience and consistent performance throughout his career. He earned his first cap for Argentina on December 15, 2007, against Chile, and has accumulated 43 points across 16 international appearances (2 tries, 1 penalty, 15 conversions).
Despite the Six Nations tournament currently taking center stage in France, the Top 14 continues to deliver compelling action. Perpignan’s victory over Pau underscores the league’s competitive nature and the importance of experienced players like Urdapilleta in driving team success.
Looking ahead, Perpignan will aim to build on this momentum as they navigate the remainder of the Top 14 season. Their upcoming fixtures will be crucial in their fight to secure their place in the league. Pau, while remaining in a strong position, will require to regroup and address the areas where they were outplayed by Perpignan to maintain their challenge for the top spot.
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