Ligue 2: no winner in the first leg of the relegation play-offs, Laval and Rouen draw (1

In a sold-out Robert-Diochon stadium, the Lavallois had a good start by leading at halftime. A controversial penalty, awarded after the break, prevented them from winning (1-1). Everything will be decided on Sunday. The Tango will need to win to stay in Ligue 2.

Ten days after finishing the regular Ligue 2 season in 16th place, which is the playoff spot, the players from Mayenne launched their maintenance operation on Tuesday night against the 3rd place team in the National, FC Rouen. The first leg of this double confrontation took place in Normandy, on the field of the Robert-Diochon stadium. Facing a crowd fully supporting their Red Devils, the Tango knew the delicate mission ahead. But it was important to start the game well in order to hope for a positive result from this away trip and look more confidently towards the return match on Sunday at Le Basser.

A clear strike by Mandouki opens the scoring

The start of the match is balanced. The first opportunity goes to the Mayennais, with a fine long-range shot from Bianda narrowly missing Maraval’s goal (4′). The Rouennais seem to be slowly gaining the upper hand, but they don’t pose a real threat to the Lavallois defense. Thomas also tries from distance, but it is off target (12′). However, the third attempt by the Tango is successful. Following excellent play on the left, Houdayer passes to Mandouki who scores a brilliant goal beyond Maraval’s reach to put his team ahead (0-1, 18′). What a goal!

The reaction from the Red Devils is immediate. Samassa makes a great save on an instant shot from Cartellier (23′). In the following minute, a cross from Mendy is met by Bassin, but the Rouen captain misses the target (24′). The match evens out in the last fifteen minutes and the first half ends with Tango in the lead.

Rouen equalizes quickly after the break

At the resumption of play, the home team starts strong. On the first ball, Rouen earns a penalty. Following a cross from Cartellier, Ouaneh is fouled by Mr. Leleu for a questionable call on Kerouedan in the Lavallois penalty area (46′). Fuss converts the penalty to equalize for the home team (1-1, 48′). The Tango respond with a fine curled shot from Houdayer that narrowly misses (53′). Lavallois play higher up the field, but have to be wary of Rouen’s counterattacks. Fuss almost scores after being left alone against Samassa, but Sanna’s good positioning prevents the Normand from shooting (70′). Fatigue starts to show on both sides and substitutions are made by both teams, including the introductions of Mbayo and Clavreul for Mayenne (74′). Kouassi misses the target after Maraval’s save falls to Mbayo’s feet (80′).

The end of the match is tense, but no more goals are scored in the three minutes of added time. The two teams draw level (1-1). After this tied score, everything is still to play for the Lavallois and it will all be decided on Sunday at Le Basser. In front of their supporters, they will need to win this final game of the season to continue in Ligue 2 next season. This match can be followed on ICI Mayenne (kick-off at 5 pm).

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