Let’s be clear, it is not really a surprise. The smallest budget in the division (14 million euros) despite a 4 million rise last summer, Montauban simply cannot compete in the Top 14.

Not yet doomed, USM are locked in a straight fight with Perpignan to grab the relegation play-off spot. Unquestionably.

Sébastien Tillous-Borde’s players fight with what they have, are capable of staying with certain sides for 40 minutes, as at Racing on Saturday (19-13 at the break), but end up cracking. Lacking squad depth and, undeniably, quality, the reigning Pro D2 champions are an easy target on their travels.

Even the betting odds are no longer worth it for the keenest punters. The odds on opposition try-scorers are also low, which is rare enough to be worth pointing out. Since the start of the season, the Green and Blacks have shipped 47 points in Paris, 71 in Bordeaux, 84 in Clermont, 54 in La Rochelle and 49 in Toulouse.

A crucial date on 24 January

At Toulon and at Racing 92, USM conceded 54 and 61 points. Needless to say, theirs is the worst defence in the championship. Once again, Montauban were not expecting to go up last year. Recruitment was minimal (Fifita, Simutoga, Somkhishvili), along with two jokers who arrived during the season, prop Mafileo and centre Popoali’i.

Jérôme Bosviel’s team-mates have made home matches a priority. But with this kind of away form, Montauban will have to take the maximum number of points at home. One point would already be a lot. They have already done it against Castres at home. Not forgetting the win over USAP and the draw against Montpellier.

The most telling away result may well be the one on 24 January, when Montauban travel to… Perpignan. A do-or-die match that may already determine which side will be playing in Pro D2 next year. Will Montauban be capable of pulling off a shock? With their irresistible supporters, anything is possible.