At the last Guingamp match, the Rafettes struggled to find the back of the net this Sunday afternoon (2:00 pm), during the 18th matchday of the Second League.
It’s certainly not a do-or-die situation for them. But in spirit, this trip to Guingamp is crucial for the Ruthénoises. Crucial because it should help them move further away from the relegation zone, with four matches left before the final verdict. Currently in 10th place and the first non-relegation spot, Karima Taïeb’s team only has a two-point lead over Metz, their closest pursuer. And eight points ahead of today’s opponent, EAG, who are currently the bottom but not yet completely condemned team.
For Rodez, salvation will come from finally breaking free offensively in Brittany. The weeks go by and the problems persist for Ninon Barnoin’s squad. Their goal-scoring record is meager, with only nine goals scored, four less than the next worst team in the league—Guingamp. It doesn’t promise much excitement in a match that will also take place in the city’s main stadium, the Roudourou.
“We know we are struggling in front of goal this year,” coach Taïeb had stated last weekend after the 0-0 draw against Nice at Paul-Lignon. “But we need to keep working, believe until the end, not give up, to potentially grab that goal in Guingamp.”
Moreover, on the other side of the field, the team in red and gold manage to show great strength. Coming off a draw and a bonus win against Auxerre’s runner-up (0-1) eight days prior. With the invaluable Deborah Garcia guarding the goal, as well as significant control in their play—just waiting for it to turn into goals.
The Rodez squad: Garcia – Defenders, Bettoumi, Sevenne, Brissonnet, Bouron, Grocq, Saltel, Vaysse, Dehri, Banuta, Clément, Roumiga, Theriez, Gay, Barnoin.
