One to forget (Nîmes-Bordeaux, 2-0)

Domination means nothing without goals, a lesson the Girondins learned the hard way this afternoon against Nîmes Olympique. Despite having over 70% of total possession, they came away from this frustrating game with nothing. Bordeaux set up camp in the Nîmes' half from the outset, but the hosts were solid and well-drilled in defence. And clearly well-accustomed to playing on the counter...

Surging out from defence, the Crocodiles opened the score courtesy of Meling (14’). Having taken the lead, against the run of play, Nîmes were more determined than ever to park the bus. The Girondins totally dominated possession in their search for an opening, at the risk of leaving themselves exposed to more counter-attacks. It was the 40th minute before the Girondins managed to create a proper chance on goal. Intercepting a scuffed clearance, Yacine Adli smashed in a powerful volley from the edge of the box, which Nîmes keeper Baptiste Reynet did well to stop.

Things finally got going in the second half, and Reynet distinguished himself again with a double save to deny both Rémi Oudin and Ui-Jo Hwang (50’). Hwang came close again with a well-placed header a little later on (65’). The equalising goal seemed tantalisingly close, until Loris Benito was shown a red card for a tackle from behind, hauling down a goal-bound Aribi (68’). Minutes later, Renaud Ripart headed home to double the hosts' advantage (70’). Game over. Bordeaux are in serious need of a rebound against Metz next weekend.