The HAC conceded its third consecutive draw (0-0), this Saturday in Niort. Even if he is still moving slowly, his performance has let some signs of progress filter out. The Ciel and Marine did most of the game in the first half hour, without creating a clear opportunity, before being cooled by the expulsion of Mathieu Gorgelin in the 35th. Found guilty of a fault on his exit to meet Kemen, the Le Havre goalkeeper was expelled for the first time in his career.
As soon as there is debate, it is dead for us. Paul Le Guen
Paul Le Guen was then forced to take out Khalid Boutaïb to allow Yahia Fofana to take over in goal. For his first appearance in Ligue 2, the young goalkeeper (20 years old) was only used very little. Because even outnumbered, the Havres, disciplined, generous and dangerous in spurts, were able to contain Niortais imprecise in the finish.
“We had a good game overall, believes coach Paul Le Guen. We got off to a good start, I think we had everything under control until the expulsion. I do not know if there is really a fault. But as soon as there is debate, anyway, it’s dead for us. Afterwards, the players showed a lot of courage. We defended very well. This is in line with our last two matches against Amiens and Guingamp. If we keep that mindset, that commitment mentality, I think we’ll be rewarded pretty quickly. “
A crucial next match against Nancy
The result is not bad in itself, but the accounting operation is not at all satisfactory. The men of Paul Le Guen, who have won only one of their thirteen league games, see the threat to blame. Back down to 13th place, they are only five points ahead of Nancy, 18th and therefore in a jump-off position. Nancy, it will be precisely the next opponent of the HAC, Tuesday February 2 at the Océane Stadium.
“We must be aware of what is at stake. It will be a crucial match, recognizes Captain Alexandre Bonnet. Even if we feel better, the important thing is to win matches to give yourself a little more air and a more pleasant end of the season..”
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