The 13th day of the Ligue Magnus saw the Marseille Spartans host the Nice Eagles. A match largely decided in the first few minutes.
Two projects were pitted against each other this evening. One is a newcomer to Ligue Magnus with impressive resources, Marseille. Having entered the elite level last year, the Spartans are already aiming for the title. On an impressive streak of six consecutive victories, the Marseillais are determined to achieve their ambitions. On the other hand, the Nice Eagles are starting a new project with the goal of being at the forefront by 2030.
Two visions were evident on the ice. Eager, Marseille started the match with great intensity. Penalized for a high stick, Luka Kalan provided the hosts with a power play. An opportunity seized by Paul Joubert. The Frenchman scored the opening goal in the second minute. The Spartans kept the pressure on the Nice goalkeeper. The Estonian goalie was caught off guard a minute later by Fabien Colotti (2-0). Once again, Nice struggled to get into the game and paid the price. A recurring issue that has already cost the Niçois many points this season.
Conrad Molder Delays the Inevitable for the Eagles
Despite struggling, the Azuréens held on in the second period thanks to Conrad Molder. After a difficult start, he made 15 saves, allowing his team to stay in the match—at least until the 36th minute when Victor Bjorkung scored to take the lead to 3-0. In the last 20 minutes, the Eagles became more enterprising. Marseille eased up, allowing the Maralpins to dictate the play. Nicolas Ruel and Marek Sloboda stood out. The Slovakian even managed to breach the Spartans’ defense in the 46th minute. Marseille lost footing, and opportunities to reduce the lead increased. The Niçois tried everything until the end but were unable to close the gap.
The Eagles ultimately fell (3-1) and may have regrets about their start of the match. On Friday, they will host the Angers Ducs for a duel that promises to be difficult against a serious title contender. Meet at 8 PM at the Jean Bouin ice rink for the kickoff.
