The experience of two consecutive playoffs semi-finals in 2024 and 2025 clearly served the Dragons well as they were pressuring the Boxers early in the match, but the visitors resisted patiently, waiting for their moment. Despite only having 9 shots compared to 2 in the first ten minutes in favor of the locals, Bordeaux rolled up their sleeves and rose to finish the first quarter with zero shots.
But, how can we explain this change in momentum? It was due to defensive rigor and especially top-notch opportunism, when Baptiste Bruche took advantage of a numerical superiority to set his team on the right path (0-1, 13’28). A goal that put the Dragons on the back foot and gave the visitors the confidence boost they needed, almost sealing the deal during their strong moments at the end of the first period (17’17, 18’45, 19’20).
No euphoria
Common in this first match of a series where three more wins are needed to reach the final, Bordeaux always had a step ahead. And even when the Rouennais seemed to have come back with winning intentions by equalizing (1-1, 21’17), the Bordelais kept their composure with a certain mastery and clinical realism. They may not have had possession or the best opportunities, but they had the success and relaxation that allowed them to widen the gap swiftly, thanks to Loïk Poudrier’s acceleration (1-2, 24’03) and William Pelletier (1-3, 25’19).
Without ever losing sight of the goal of securing a precious first victory for the rest of the operations, the Boxers left the Rouennais with only crumbs, rarely as challenged in their den. If the Bordelais had managed to win one out of four matches in the championship (Note: 2-3 after penalties on November 30th in Rouen), they had not put such pressure and impact on the first of the regular season.
Maintaining application and defensive rigor until the end, Bordeaux, who had meanwhile secured their defenses through Tommy Giroux (1-4, 41’42), remained focused at the end of this first battle won. No euphoria, just the feeling of a good start. Match 2 is scheduled for this Saturday, at Île Lacroix.
