Bordeaux dig deep for the win [1-2]

A stadium full to the rafters, a newly-promoted side against a recently-relegated legend: the stage was set for a memorable evening at Laval's Stade Francis-Le-Basser. In spite of the vociferous home support, the Girondins stamped their authority on the game early on. After his first attempt was stopped by Sauvage (5’), Josh Maja was immediately back on the attack. A scything corner, a clever pass and a thumping shot: another goal for Maja, his 6th of the season (0-1, 6’).

This early goal boosted Bordeaux's confidence, and they continued to dominate the midfield thanks to the tireless work of Issouf Sissokho. The Girondins created a series of chances, including a shot for Sissokho himself (14’). Fransérgio also had a go from long range: his first effort was saved easily enough (15’), but Sauvage had to pull off a very special save to stop the second (39’). Laval were determined not to make things easy for Bordeaux, and they put up a very strong fight. Urged on by the vocal home faithful, they constantly tested the Girondins. Two crosses from Seidou gave Gaëtan Poussin a chance to warm up (12’, 15’). Perhaps the biggest threat was Nchobi, who saw two decent left-footed shots slip just wide of the mark (28’, 35’).

The hosts returned for the second half determined to get something from this game, and their efforts were soon rewarded. After Issouf Sissokho squandered a chance at the other end (55’), Laval counter-attacked and equalised. Maggiotti pounced on a mistimed pass and smashed the ball past Gaëtan Poussin from close range (1-1, 56’). For the next ten minutes the Girondins had to buckle up and weather the storm. Thereafter, it was time to get back to business and find a winner. It was Zurico Davitashvili who made all the difference, charging free down the left and breaking into the box. When his own shot was blocked, he played a superb backheel for Alberth Elis, who duly smashed his shot just under the bar and into the back of the net (1-2, 68’).

But the game wasn't over yet, far from it! There were still twenty minutes left to play, and Olivier Frapolli's side threw absolutely everything they had at Bordeaux. Naidji (72’) and sub Durbant (76’) both came close in a very tense ten minutes. Then Sylla slipped past his marker on the right flank and floated in a cross towards the back post, where the waiting Durbant tipped it into the net. The goal was disallowed for offside, but the video replay suggests it really should have been given. In the dying seconds of the game Durbant was back inside the box, falling to the floor after a clash with Clément Michelin (90’+2). The referee refused to award the penalty. Laval were furious, and the game ended in a flurry of yellow cards. Bordeaux emerged victorious, but they really had to fight for the three points. It was one of those tricky games that need to be won if you want to be a serious contender in this division. Mission accomplished for the Girondins, who are top of the table once again. The boys will already be looking ahead to the next challenge, against Metz this coming Saturday.