Back down to earth [2-0]

The Girondins started brightly, with Fransérgio (7’) and Dilane Bakwa (11’) both testing the hosts' defence. But David Guion's plans were derailed almost immediately when both Alberth Elis (11’) and Junior Mwanga (24’) limped off injured, replaced by Logan Delaurier-Chaubet and Clément Michelin. Saint-Etienne began to turn up the pressure with some searching long balls. Wadji (22’) was denied a chance on goal because Gaëtan Poussin came off his line well. Krasso (27’) and Wadji (29’, 45’) both sent shots wide of the mark, but Les Verts did eventually find a way in. A slick passing movement culminated with Chambost picking out Monconduit high up the field. He produced a perfect cross for Wadji to tap in (1-0, 35’).

The Girondins returned after the break determined to snatch a quick equaliser. David Guion's men looked sharper as the second half got underway, creating more chances. Vital Nsimba demonstrated his crossing capabilities three times in rapid succession, picking out Dilane Bakwa (56’) and Malcom Bokele (58’) whose efforts missed the target. The third delivery fell to Dilane Bakwa, and this time it took a spectacular save from Saint-Etienne keeper Dreyer to preserve the hosts' lead (62’). As is all too often the case in this division, experience and pragmatism won the day. When Yoann Barbet headed the ball down in his own area, Maçon seized the opportunity and smashed home Les Verts' second goal (2-0, 67’).

David Guion rolled the dice with some more attacking substitutions, and the Girondins never let their heads go down. Malcom Bokele rolled a tantalising ball across the goalmouth, unfortunately just out of reach of both Aliou Badji and Fransérgio (80’). Josh Maja looked to have pulled one back in injury time (90’+4), but the referee disallowed the goal for an alleged handball which was hard to see with the naked eye. This defeat will leave the Girondin with more regrets than serious concerns. Against one of the strongest sides in the league, the Girondins lacked a little bit of maturity and pragmatism. The boys will already be focused on their next challenge, and getting back to winning ways against Dijon next Saturday.