Focus

3rd place, a first…

Beginning the season in positions that are usually only occupied by the strongest forces in France, Dante and his teammates never took their feet off the pedal. Which explains, at two games from the end of the season, the lead that separates them from their main chaser (Lyon find themselves trailing by 14 points). After losing the derby at the Vélodrome, the hopes of achieving a higher finish have disappeared, their draw has been made: the squad will finish the season with a bronze medal.

For the first time in its history, the Gym will therefore finish in 3rd place of the top division in France. The club that finished top of the league on four occasions over half a century ago, 3 times on the second step , and have featured in the top five in four other seasons.

Continuity

A deeper look at the figures allows one to make an analysis of the continuity of the evolution of the club. To get closer to the top is one thing, but to get comfortable there is another. In 113 years of history, the Aiglons have secured back-to-back “top five finishes on two occasions”. When they earned the first honours in their history, by keeping the title at the start of the ’50s: and during the passage of the giants in the ‘70s. 4th last season and 3rd this season, the squad has found regularity in their performances, even though certain faces have changed.

On the other hand, even during the glorious years, the Azuréens never secured 3 seasons on the trot in the top 5.

Another challenge to accomplish for the squads still to come...

The Gym in the top five of L1

1st (4) : 1951, 1952, 1956, 1959

2nd (3) : 1968, 1973, 1976

3rd (1) : 2017

4th (2) : 2013, 2016

5th (2) : 1950, 1974