The ASM Clermont Auvergne has shown a noticeable difference in how they play at home versus on the road this season. While they are currently the top defense in the Top 14, allowing an average of 11 points per match, their away games have been much more challenging. On Saturday, October 3, they suffered a heavy loss, falling 38-13 to Stade Rochelais at Marcel Deflandre. Despite leading at halftime (12-13), Clermont struggled after the break, giving up four tries and scoring no points in the second half. Mathys Belaubre, a young three-quarter for Clermont, has spoken out about the team's recurring issues in away matches. This loss was the third straight away game where the team failed to perform consistently for the full 80 minutes. Belaubre emphasized the need for improvement, pointing out that allowing around 40 points in each away match is no longer acceptable and must be addressed. The difference in defensive performance is clear when comparing Clermont's home and away records. Last season, they were the fourth best defense in the league overall. However, at home, they ranked seventh in the defensive standings, allowing an average of 23.6 points per match. This season, their away matches have seen a dramatic increase in points conceded, with 124 points given up in their first three away games. This has placed them 11th in the league's away defense rankings, with an average of 41.3 points conceded per away match. Looking ahead, Clermont will host Union Bordeaux-Bègles next weekend. Like Clermont, the Girondins have also struggled in away matches. The challenge for Clermont will be to maintain their strong defensive performance at home while also working to improve their consistency on the road.