Girondins still in the race! [4-2]

In a high-stakes Garonne derby, Martin Braithwaite showed no mercy for his former club. Bordeaux's most recent signing twice fired past Alban Lafon, leaving TFC's talented young keeper stranded just before (38’) and after half-time (49’) to put the Girondins in control of this game.   Sylla had given Toulouse the lead in the first half, but Bordeaux kept faith in their attacking tactics. Gus Poyet's side were committed and focused for their last home game of the season. The first chance of the evening fell to François Kamano, teed up by Lukas Lerager, but the ball just slipped away from him in front of the open goal (10’). The pace slowed slightly when Toulouse took an unexpected lead, but Bordeaux kept their cool. Martin Braithwaite's equaliser allowed the 35,000 fans packed into the Matmut ATLANTIQUE to breathe a little easier at half time.   The Girondins came back firing after the break, and Toulouse looked overwhelmed by the occasion. In the 51st minute, Nicolas De Préville came n for François Kamano. The pace was intense, as Toulouse looked to strike on the counter at every given opportunity. Benoît Costil did well to stop a low-flying shot from Toivonen (72’). With time ticking on, Lukas Lerager connected with a cross from Nicolas De Préville to open up a two goal lead for the Girondins (74, 3-1).   Malcom put the game to bed with a superb strike for Bordeaux's fourth (78’, 4-1). The Brazilian's goal was a fantastic solo effort, a long run followed by a decisively-placed strike which left Lafont no chance. Valentin Vada came on for Jaroslav Plasil, who had been tireless as ever in the centre of midfield. Otavio also replaced Malcom for the last five minutes.   As the game entered injury time, Diop knocked in another consolation goal for Toulouse (90’, 4-2). The Girondins triumphed over their south-west rivals in a superb Garonne derby. Even the mascot was on the pitch celebrating! A strong performance and a fine result for our last home game of the season. Three more points which leave us in 7th place, two points behind Nice in the final European qualifying spot. Next weekend promises to be high in drama!