During the 14th day of Ligue 1, RC Lens hosted Montpellier at Bollaert for a duel between two teams looking for consistency. The Sang et Or, 6th in the standings, had two wins and three defeats in five matches, while the MHSC, bottom of the standings, had a record of one victory, one draw and three defeats.
From the first minutes, Lens imposed its rhythm, showing itself to be enterprising thanks in particular to Facundo Medina, author of two early attempts (6th and 13th), although off target. With possession largely in their favor (65% against 23%), the Lensois deprived the Montpellier residents of opportunities.
Lens finds the fault before the break
Despite this domination, the first real opportunity came from the visitors. In the 27th minute, Al-Tamari launched a dangerous shot into the area, but Brice Samba, vigilant, made a decisive save. After more than 30 minutes of Montpellier resistance, the defense gave in to a rapid counterattack. Labeau-Lascary, well served on the right side, eliminated Sagnan with a skillful hook before landing his shot in Lecomte’s left net (1-0, 39th).
Returning from the locker room, RC Lens continued their momentum, regularly putting Lecomte to work. In the 58th minute, Fulgini, well placed in the area, saw his point-blank attempt diverted for a corner. Montpellier, although in difficulty, had a golden opportunity in the 75th minute. Téji Savanier, after a good run, fired a powerful shot, but Samba, imperious, prevented the equalizer. Lens narrowly missed the break in the 78th minute, when Sotoca sent a long shot off target.
Chills until the end
RC Lens came close to disaster in the last quarter of an hour. A strike from Sylla in the area, followed by another attempt from Savanier, ended on the roof of the goal. In the 84th minute, Wesley Saïd thought he would double the lead after deceiving Lecomte, but his goal was canceled for offside.
A few moments later, Zaroury saw his shot graze the right post (86th). Finally, the Lensois obtained their deliverance in added time. An error from Lecomte, who scored against his side, sealed the score (2-0, 90+2′), allowing the locals to leave with three precious points.
Will Still’s men are in 7th place, tied on points with Nice. For its part, the pailladin club sees the crisis continue, with a delay of three points on Le Havre, first in relegation.
