'Fans deserve it almost more than we do' - La Rochelle captain Gregory Alldritt

La Rochelle skipper Gregory Alldritt gave credit to the club's supporters as they completed their maiden Heineken Champions Cup triumph following a 24-21 win over Leinster in the final at the Stade Velodrome in Marseille on Saturday.

As Jonathan Sexton kicked six penalty goals in the first three quarters, La Rochelle managed just 10 points that came from a 12th minute try from Raymond Rhule followed by a conversion and a penalty goal from Ihia West.

Nevertheless, Pierre Bourgarit helped the French side claw their way back before Arthur Retiere touched down in the closing stage to help them seal a thrilling win. The result also meant La Rochelle became the fourth French club and 13th overall to win the title.

The victory also helped them overcome a two game losing streak in the finals after they lost 18-8 in the Top 14 and 22-17 in the Champions Cup during the 2021/22 season with Toulouse being the opponents on both the occasions and Alldritt feels the fans deserve the success.

“This victory is huge,” Alldritt said after the win in the final. “I am emptied.

“[When] I arrive in La Rochelle, I think I will realise. What makes the most fun is to bring the trophy back to the fans.

“I think they deserve it almost more than we do. They never let us go. When you see the Vélodrome, what more do you want? We just can’t wait to give them the trophy. They are so wonderful.”