The Nice Eagles hosted Gap late Sunday afternoon for the 21st day of Ligue Magnus. A mid-table clash that was full of suspense.
The Eagles have gone three for three this week. After victories against Anglet and Briançon, it was Gap that struggled against the Nice sticks. Three important wins against direct playoff contenders. Although the Eagles made the game easier for themselves, they almost got burned.
The beginning of the match was balanced. But that didn’t prevent the Niçois from taking the lead after only six minutes of play, with a goal scored by the returning Ondrej Kopta. The former top scorer and point-getter of the Eagles (2021) is back on the roster after a stint in the Czech championship. A significant asset for Frantisek Stolc, the coach of Nice.
Even though they led in this first phase, the Azuréens were heavily under attack from Gap. Once again starting as goalkeeper, Conrad Molder showed great solidity. With 12 saves in the first period, he allowed his team to lead at the break.
The Eagles Break Away, then Get Caught
Back from the locker room, the Nice Eagles returned with different intentions. Filip Dvorak made it two. Less than a minute later, Julien Msumbu increased the lead for the Maralpins (3-0). A flattering score that did not reflect the overall nature of the game. Gap was more dangerous offensively in general. But the Nice defense held firm to thwart the Raptors’ chances.
At the end of the second period, the game grew tense and scuffles broke out between Maxim Corvez and Loïc Coulaud. Proof that Gap hadn’t thrown in the towel yet. In the last part of the match, Nice seemed to be managing well. Confident in their strength, the Eagles ended up being scared. It’s logical when you slow the pace. The Raptors reduced the gap for the first time through Lucas Colombin (48th minute), adding more stakes to the game. Up to the 57th minute, with the exit of goalkeeper Antoine Gilbert. Gap went all in and it eventually paid off. Less than a minute before the end, Jan Dalecky came to sow doubt in the minds of the Niçois (3-2). Fortunately, the score would not change.
Nice concluded their week with a third consecutive win. A breath of fresh air for the Eagles who are capitalizing on their current good form. In the standings, nothing changes; they remain in eighth place, tied on points with Cergy-Pontoise (27), but with four games in hand.
Next week, the Côte d’Azur hockey players have an appointment with the French Cup against Marseille. An away game that won’t be easy. But in the cup, anything is possible. Kick-off is this Tuesday at 8:15 PM.
