“We needed to find a certain solidity. In a 3-5-2 formation, we put on a show, but we exposed ourselves a lot and conceded too many goals. We lost three matches 3-0, even though we had offered a good response to our opponents. Confidence took a hit. So, I went back to playing with four defenders and two defensive midfielders to balance the team. It’s certain that we are a little less spectacular, but we are much more coherent.” With five goals conceded in six matches, the team has mainly regained confidence. “If we still lack offensive efficiency, we have reconciled with ourselves. We know we can compete with the best teams in this D1 league.”
Context:
The coach discusses the changes made to the team’s formation to improve their defensive performance and confidence on the field.
Fact Check:
The team has conceded five goals in six matches, showing improvement in defense.
Deux derbies “particuliers”
Almost certain of their survival, USVP knows that their margin remains narrow. “The goal is to climb a few more places by the end of the season so we don’t have to depend on the situation of the R3 teams,” says the coach. But a tough schedule awaits us. The team will face FC Marmande 2 (7th), a strong opponent, a visit to neighbors in Gontaud (4th), another to SU Agen 2 (8th), and two matches against Miramont (2nd) and Laugnac (3rd) to finish.
“Beyond wanting to compete with the best in this D1 league, we really want to finish this season with a liberated spirit.”
The next two matches will be particularly special for Nicolas Creuzet, who played for twenty years with Marmande and coached Gontaud until last season. “Besides their special significance for me, these are two derbies for the club. They were also two matches we lost 3-0 in the first leg. We have a score to settle with ourselves. We want to show our neighbors what we are really worth today.”
Context:
The team coach reflects on the upcoming tough matches and the personal significance of facing former clubs.
Fact Check:
Nicolas Creuzet has strong ties to both opposing teams through his playing and coaching history.
For these two upcoming matches, the ambition is high. “Taking four points in total would be an excellent operation. We know it won’t be easy but, based on our recent results, we can believe. We really want to finish this season with a liberated spirit. We still need five or six more points to be safe. Without pressure and with the opportunity to integrate our young players into the team, I hope we can end the season on a high note. Looking forward to the next one as well.”
