After a week off, the two teams from Tarn-et-Garonne, already assured of their maintenance, are back on the field. And it is FC Deux Rives 82 who needs the most points to keep hope alive.
Montauban-Toulouse Rodeo FC will face off on Saturday at 6 p.m. in Montauban (Jean-Verbeke complex). Referees: Mrs. Charlène Laure, assisted by Mr. Farik Touaref and Jérémie Jouannic. The M—fécistes will try to reassure themselves after their heavy defeat in Castanet in the last game (5-1). The Montalbanais (8th, 27 points) are logically favored in this match against the bottom team from Haute-Garonne (14th, 9 points). The Toulouse team goes into the game with a poor record, having the worst defense (53 goals conceded) and the worst attack (only 17 goals scored). Coach Stéphane Jacquot is cautious: “The Rodeo FC has some good individual players we must watch out for. We need to be serious, stay focused, and remain mobilized to finish as high as possible even though maintenance is already secured. These games should help us prepare for the future, to continue working on certain tactical aspects.” Concerning his group, many injuries are still a concern with captain Anicet Lasme (recovering), Moises Abraham Sow Noguera (pubalgia), and Medhy Kessimou (groin muscle). There is only uncertainty about defender Yoan Baquié’s presence (possible return following an ankle sprain).
Fonsorbes-FC Deux Rives 82 will also play on Saturday at 6 p.m. in Fonsorbes (Les Boulbènes stadium). Referees: Mr. Julien Roblez, assisted by Mr. Yannick Planas and Miloud Djidel. Despite dropping points in the last two games (lost 1-2 against L’Union/Saint Jean and drew 1-1 against Muret), the Golféchois still hold a strong 3rd place with 37 points, just four points behind the leader from Rodeo. On the other hand, the Riverains can no longer hide, as they are now expected everywhere with the status of the pool’s big player, extremely reliable defensively. They cannot afford to lose any more points if they want to keep their hopes up. For the Fonsorbais, the situation is more mixed with a 9th place in the standings and 25 points. Despite this, Fonsorbes coach Kévin Smolarczyk expects a tough game: “Fonsorbes is a solid team that never gives up, just like their coach. We were clearly not at our level in the first leg (1-1). Winning there will not be easy. They will probably pose a physical challenge, and their field (very dry with many unpredictable bounces) will not help. We need to step up this weekend.” In terms of his squad, two key players (Loïc Laincer and Mathis Vial) are suspended. On the other hand, Anthony Labadie is back in the group.
