For the 17th day, the Aiglonnes convincingly won 25-17 against Brest in a tricky match. Struggling in the first half, their perseverance and relentless defense overcame the Brest team.
It was the weekend’s duel, the current runner-up (Brest) against the third in the championship (Nice). The Azuriennes caused a sensation by winning this encounter.
They reassured the OGC Nice supporters, who had witnessed the heavy 14-22 defeat at home on the 15th day against Fleury, sixth place.
First half mixed
The red and blacks patched up holes for thirty minutes. They did not find a solution in attack due to numerous turnovers or poor decisions. At the 13th minute, with a two-player advantage following two blatant Brest errors, the Nice team did not close the two-goal gap.
The only bright spot at the start of the match was the magnificent spin shot by winger Carmen Martin. She greatly contributed to her team’s victory with a remarkable 4/4 shooting.
The first period ended with a slight deficit (11-13).
Hatadou Sako stunning
The Nice goalkeeper was undoubtedly the best player of the match. First allowing her team to draw level (14-14 at the 35th minute) and then to take the lead for the first time in the match with a quarter-hour remaining. The entry of French international Allison Pineau changed nothing, Sako was on another planet, compiling reflex saves and stretching like a soccer goalie.
The supporters present in the Charles Erhmann hall chanted her name fervently.
The match ended with a wide 25-17 victory, with the Nice team closing within four points of Brest and widening the gap with their pursuers.
