Since the end-of-year disappointment in Nancy, the team has changed its coach (Marc Vidil) and “is starting a new two-year cycle.” “With the objective this year of reaching the French Championship final and getting past the first round of the European Cup.” The event, which will take place in Nice, is scheduled for early December. Needless to say, the women from Nice don’t have much time left to prepare. Before this important event, they will get to face Bordeaux, Nancy, and Choisy in the championship.
A series of three home matches will allow them to refine their team dynamics. They really need it because since the beginning of the season, the women from Nice have been accumulating injuries. “Indeed, we are rarely at full strength in training.” Eugénie Pirat, who returned last week, still has a weakened shoulder. Elise Lefert, who is suffering from groin pain, is uncertain for this weekend.
Even if the preparation has been somewhat disrupted, the coach is nonetheless pleased with the start of the season. “I was a bit apprehensive at first because I had never coached a women’s team, but I really don’t regret it. They are always very motivated. We are really finding our stride.” After two long trips to Saint-Angely and Annonay, the ONN group has indeed had time to get to know and appreciate each other. Now, it’s with their home crowd that the women will have to (re)connect. “There is always some anxiety about playing at home.”
Starting with a victory against Bordeaux would already be a very good beginning.
