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In the pouring rain that fell on Reims, Wilson-Esbrand represented a real clearing for the local supporters. Coming into play in the 66th minute, the defender on loan from Manchester City reversed the direction of the match and gave his team a victory (1-0). While the SDR had until then offered a game without much interest, the newcomer changed everything in the 84th minute. Served by Mohammed Daramy to the left of the penalty area, Josh Wilson Esbrand came in on his right foot before sending a magnificent curl into the opposite net. His first goal in Ligue 1. A superb gesture which, in addition to making the Reims supporters shout with joy, gave his team the advantage. Three more points in the bag of Stade de Reims, which allows it to rank fourth.
Being 2.06m tall has certain advantages, especially when you are a central defender. Established on the left side of the three-man Lorient defense, Isaak Touré managed to keep the point from a draw for a long time for his team. Determining in many aspects of the game, he found himself in the path of Reims strikes on numerous occasions. Not clumsy with his feet, his pass of more than fifty meters to Romain Faivre (54th) was a model of its kind and could have proved decisive. An excellent performance delivered by the former Marseille player, captain Saturday afternoon at Auguste-Delaune.
A third home victory for Stade de Reims, and a surprising provisional fourth place in the standings. Reims supporters would probably all have signed at the start of the year for such a season launch. Still in Ligue 2 a few seasons ago, the Champagne club continues to work discreetly but effectively. Will Still is obviously not for nothing and, despite his red card (see elsewhere), the Belgian technician was able to make the right changes to see his team react.
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While his team was unable to break through the Lorient defense and his players really needed him, the Belgian tactician was forced to abandon them. Not on his decision, of course, but on the orders of Jérôme Brisard (80′). Furious from his sidelines, and accusing opposing goalkeeper Mvogo of wasting time, the Reims coach was finally excluded. It was his brother, Nicolas Still, who took control until the end of the game. Will, the eldest of the two, was still able to console himself thanks to the victory of his family.
Complicated match for the Lorient phenomenon. Established at the forefront of the Lorient attack by Régis Le Bris, the 17-year-old center forward was weaned from balls and was unable to exploit the rare opportunities he had. Author of three goals since the start of the season, he only made ten passes this evening (lowest total of the match). With his only shot of the match, he concluded a magnificent collective action with a strike from the stands. He was finally replaced in the 58th minute by Bassirou N’diaye. Learning continues for the French U18 international.