On Saturday, the Gym fell to defeat against Saint-Etienne in the final friendly of summer 2018 (3-0).

The start to a match doesn't always end a game, but it can certainly shape the way of things to come. Be it a good or a bad start. When after just 5 minutes, Khazri escaped down the right and perfectly found M’Vila, who opened his foot and found the back of the net, you couldn't help but think that the afternoon was going to be a tough one for the Aiglons. In stifling heat, that prediction was confirmed, particularly in the first half.

Lacking in inspiration and impact, the Gym were punished by the strength and experience of the incredibly efficient Verts. Jean-Louis Gasset's side doubled the score as Diony proved himself quicker than Dante, lost the Brazilian and struck at goal (2-0, 27’). They then added another in a very similar fashion, finished by Diony, after an excellent assist from Hamouma (3-0, 43’).

In attack, the Aiglons had two opportunities during the first 45 minutes. Starting through the middle of the attacking trio of the 4-3-3, Saint-Maximin made the most of a ball from Cyprien, beat Perrin but could only find Ruffier (12’). The very same ASM left the middle for the right wing, saw Cyprien on the edge of the box, picked him out, but the number 25 missed the target (33’).

The Red and Blacks took control of the ball in the second half, but didn't manage to find the back of their opponent's net.

A strike from Cyprien flew over (57'), another from Saint-Maximin was deflected by an excellent tackle from M'Vila shortly after. But the home side, who were well set-up, were happy to sit back and defend. Youcef Atal provided one final spark, but at the end of a solo run, couldn't find a way past Ruffier (85').

After five weeks of pre-season, the Aiglons will play their first competitive match of the season next weekend, against Reims, at the Allianz Riviera. In front of their fans, and this time, with three points at stake.

C.D.

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