Played in continuous rain and on a soggy pitch, this resumption match after a three-week break was a trap for FC Lorient, leader of Ligue 2 since the break.
In front of 450 supporters who had traveled to Mayenne, the Lorientais, with Mendy and Kroupi back in the starting lineup, started the match rather well. They offered themselves several opportunities to lead in a fairly rhythmic and lively first period… given the playing conditions in general and the state of the pitch in particular.
Chances but no goals
But Kroupi, whose header was just outside the frame (42′) like Tosin’s flat foot before (19′), and his partners were never able to materialize their domination on the scoreboard. They thus remained under the threat of Laval with much less pressure on their shoulders and with full confidence (three successes in a row, undefeated for five games). If the Merlus had forgotten it, the save on their line from Mendy (40′) should have reminded them.
Laval wakes up in the second period
Probably not enough, since upon returning from the locker room, it was the locals who quickly got their hands on the game. The match thus became complicated shortly before the hour mark, with a big highlight from the locals, notably by Tchokounté who forced Mvogo into a nice tap (55′).
Shortly after, the Tangos even took the advantage after an error of judgment by Mvogo and a recovery into the empty goal by Kouassi (67′; 1-0). On the other hand, while Lorient pushed, Tchokounté doubled the lead (86′; 2-0) after getting rid of Mendy and especially Talbi. And Vargas was even close to adding a third (90’+1). A shipwreck…
A fragility on the outside to be erased as quickly as possible
However, the opportunity was so good to dig into the hole when Metz had failed to win at home, and Paris FC had been beaten at home. Finally, FC Lorient therefore concludes the first leg, certainly in the lead by a short length (ahead of Dunkirk, forced to a draw at Guingamp), but with undeniable fragility away: two victories, three draws and a fourth defeat. A guilty pleasure which cannot continue without endangering the lofty ambitions of Lorient…
The technical sheet
Spectators : 7 146
Referee: Mr. Kubler
BUTS. Laval: Kouassi (67′), Tchokounté (86′)
Warnings. FC Lorient: Talbi (66′); Laval: Roye (70′)
FC LORIENT Kalulu (Le Bris 61), Avom Ebong (Makengo 76), Kroupi (Ponceau 61), Pagis-Tosin (Soumano 76)
Substitutes: Leroy (l.) – James, Genton, Le Bris, Makengo, Ponceau, Soumano.
Coach: Olivier Pantaloni
LAVALLOIS STADIUM : Samassa – Vargas, Kouassi, Tavares, Cherni, Kokolo – Roye (cap), Sanna, Sellouki (Thomas 81′)- Zohi (Tell 80′), Tchokounté (Faurand 90’+ 3).
Substitutes: Hautbois (g) – Adilehou, Seidou, Adéoti, Thomas, Tell, Martins, Faurand.
Coach: Olivier Frapolli.
Swiss
