Let's start with a number: 12. Like the number of matches played between Ufab and Tango Bourges since their first clash in 2015. 12, it's also the number of times Bourges has won at the end of this confrontation. A statistic that hurts, even if we are talking about the reference club in the Women's League, which has seen the greatest players in the championship. And which, with fifteen titles, is the most successful in history. But then, after twelve defeats, can Ufab finally afford Bourges?
Let's be honest, the period does not speak in favor of Aurélie Bonnan's players. After leaving “idyllic”Ufab has returned to standards which approach reasonable but remains with two defeats in a row. For its part, Bourges is thriving in the championship and scored its seventh victory in eight matches last weekend.
“Going to win in Bourges is more than an achievement”
Aurélie Bonnan does not hide that the step will be high to climb. “Going to win in Bourges is more than an achievement. Nobody did it today, all the teams take the price there. Everyone takes at least twenty points. » But the technician does not want to be defeatist. “The goal is to finish the year well. »
Because if the period is complicated in the championship, everything is going well in the Eurocup. Certainly in difficulty, the Angevines won the return match against Sosnowiec on Thursday (88-90), and are therefore qualified for the round of 16. Victories on which Ufab would be wrong not to ride, despite disappointing defensive performances. “If we defend like that on Saturday in Bourges, I'll say it straight away, we'll take 50! “, warned Aurélie Bonnan Thursday evening.
We will have to be more solid, more effective in defense. To better counter the offensives of an ultra-complete squad. Axelle Merceron makes no mistake. “With them, we don't start as favorites, that's the challenge. We won't have to think too much, we will have to act. And particularly in defense, because they have strong individualities, but they also perform well collectively. »
Angers will have arguments, despite the absence of Joy Adams, still injured in the calf and whose resumption is only planned after the winter break. To try to bring down Bourges, Aurélie Bonnan will be able to rely on Ameryst Alston. With an average of 18 points, the American is the best scorer in the League. With great skill, especially at 3 points, the Angevines are able to hamper many teams. Even Bourges.
The group: Mendez, Dursus, Ngo Ndjock, Bayssière, Tahane, Nguinabe, Merceron, Alston, Dornstauder, Diarisso. Absent : Adams (injured).
