Back to business [1-0]

The Girondines returned to action against Soyaux this Saturday, almost a month since their last official engagement against Montpellier. The first game of the year took place in freezing conditions, with the pitch still frosty at kick-off. Bordeaux and Soyaux were evenly-matched for most of the first period, with Soyaux content to sit back and wait for chances to strike on the counter. This tactic very nearly paid off, with chances for Akaba (9’), Cazeau (12’, 29’) and Benoît (28’). But Romane Bruneau remained alert at the back, stopping a couple of close calls.

Pedro Martinez Losa's team were not lacking in energy or effort, but there were a few technical shortcomings which can probably be chalked up to post-holiday rustiness.  Nevertheless, Khadija Shaw (14’), Katja Snoeijs (21’), Julie Dufour (24’) and Vanessa Gilles (25’) all had shots on target. Ultimately it was Canadian international Gilles who found the opening, following up an Eve Périsset free kick to slot past Soyaux keeper Munich (1-0, 44’).

Pedro Martinez Losa made a number of changes in the second half, fielding a new-look team: Moorhouse – Lardez, Gilles (cap.), Cascarino, Chatelin – Jauréna, Palis, Karchouni – Cardia, Snoeijs, Jenkins. There was action at both ends, and plenty of space to be exploited in midfield. But somehow, solid goalscoring chances were few and far between. Ghoutia Karchouni (57’) and Darian Jenkins (64’) both fired wide, and Katja Snoeijs (73’), Mickaëlla Cardia (77’), Ghoutia Karchouni (87’) and Darian Jenkins (90’+1) all piled on the pressure. Katja Snoeijs came agonisingly close to doubling the lead (76’), beating Munich but not the woodwork.  

The final score was 1-0, a hard-earned victory over a strong rival. Soyaux gave their all this afternoon, but never really looked like getting anything from the game. A positive start to the new year and a useful warm-up for both sides, a week ahead of the return of D1.