Stade Reims vs Lyonnais - Boss David Guion refusing to give up on Reims' survival
Posted Saturday, May 14, 2016 by PA
Reims manager David Guion has refused to give up hope on his side producing an unlikely great escape to stay in Ligue 1 by beating second-placed Lyon and other results going their way.
The Champagne club are 19th in the table having lost six out of the last seven games with four successive defeats.
Nevertheless, Reims are only one point behind both GFC Ajaccio and Toulouse in the battle to avoid joining Troyes in Ligue 2.
"We still believe, and the light is still on. We'll need to get a win on the last day," Guion said.
"We're all aware that Saturday's match could save our season."
Reims lost 1-0 at Marseille last weekend following an error from veteran goalkeeper Kossi Agassa, who had been drafted back into the side, while defender Antoine Conte limped off with a groin injury.
Guion, though, continues to look at the positives.
"Our goalkeeper is very experienced, but an individual mistake can happen to a great professional," Guion said, quoted on www.ligue1.com.
"We caused Marseille quite a few problems and I regret the fact we didn't score. With a bit more determination we could have scored first and come home with at least a draw."
Lyon all but made sure of runners-up spot behind Paris St Germain by thrashing rivals Monaco 6-1 last weekend, which, barring both defeat and a massive 22 goal difference swing, will see them in the group stages of the Champions League again next season.
Manager Bruno Genesio stepped into the hot-seat following the departure of Hubert Fournier at the end of the year.
Lyon have delivered eight wins and two draws in their last 10 Ligue 1 games to overhaul Monaco.
"I am proud of having fulfilled the objective that wasn't at all easy when I started in January," Genesio said.
"I am proud of having done good work along with all the elements in my coaching team, and to have given this side its soul back."
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