The girls of OGC Nice Handball begin the second part of the season this Sunday with an away game against Fleury-Loiret in the French Cup. With a 6th place after 10 matches, the Nice team is on track even though the championship remains uncertain. Nice Premium takes stock with Sébastien Gardillou, coach of OGC Nice Handball.
Nice Premium: What should we take away from this first part of the season (6th with 4 wins and 6 losses)?
Sébastien Gardillou: In terms of the goal to be in the playoffs (top 6), we are on track. However, considering the recruitment (Darleux, Lacrabère, Escribano, Chavez…), and the preseason preparation, we could have hoped for better and been more separated from the mid-section of the league. I don’t hide that I would have liked to have two more wins.
N.P.: What are the positive points?
S.G.: The progress of Hélène Falcon, who has become the number 1 goalkeeper after injuries. She’s been at the club for three years, and she’s becoming more confident. I’ve also appreciated the integration of the new players, even if it takes time to show on the field.
N.P.: What is the team missing to aim higher?
S.G.: We suffered from the absence of Cléopatre Darleux (goalkeeper of the French team), who is a key player for the club. It’s a specific position that has a significant impact on the game. We lacked continuity and patience offensively. We’re also counting on our new recruits to bring added value.
N.P.: The calendar for OGC Nice Handball is tricky for the restart (Fleury-Loiret, 1st twice, and Metz, defending champion). Is this a good or bad thing?
S.G.: I’m not a fortune teller. Only the truth on the field counts. We’re getting into the heart of the matter with the big teams. In the first half of the season, we managed to hold Fleury and Metz but didn’t earn points; that’s not enough. We need to scrape points there. If we get points, the momentum will be good.
N.P.: What will be the goal this Sunday in the French Cup at Fleury?
S.G.: It’s a different competition. Fleury has the best squad in the league. We’re going with the intention of doing well.
N.P.: The goal of being in the Top 6 at the end of the season is in everyone’s mind…
S.G.: Yes, it’s what we want to achieve. There’s no secret; it will be about being dominant at home. I was and remain optimistic. We want the playoffs and why not shake things up.
N.P.: Where is the club’s project at?
S.G.: We are progressing, the club is under construction. It’s my third year here, and I find we are more representative locally. The local authorities, the city hall, and the management have made a lot of efforts. It’s up to us to deliver results. We want to build for the long term. The team has changed a lot, and not everything happens in a few weeks. We must be patient.
Photo credit and more information on www.ogcnicehandball.com
