Claude Puel hails St Etienne’s solidarity after derby victory over Lyon
Posted Monday, October 07, 2019 by PA
New St Etienne manager Claude Puel praised the selfless efforts of his players after a dramatic 1-0 Ligue 1 win over derby rivals Lyon thanks to a late header from Robert Beric.
Only appointed on Friday and taking up his first role since being sacked by Premier League side Leicester, the French coach had been handed a baptism of fire with the Rhone-Alpes showdown.
Lyon had not delivered a Ligue 1 success since mid-August, but came to Stade Geoffroy-Guichard on the back of a 2-0 Champions League win at RB Leipzig.
The visitors thought they had broken the deadlock on the hour, but Houssem Aouar’s effort was ruled out by a tight offside call.
St Etienne goalkeeper Jessy Moulin then produced some good saves before – with the 90 minutes all but up – Ryad Boudebouz’s floated cross was planted into the top corner by Beric as the home fans erupted.
“To produce such a performance against Lyon, with so much solidarity as well as such respect for the tactics and our instructions is great, especially in such a short time,” Puel said at a press conference.
“This victory shows players the self-sacrifice and willingness that they are determined to put in a match.
“I am building something – but this beautiful start must not remain without progress being made.”
Lyon boss Sylvinho, meanwhile, was left to reflect on another largely-promising performance which failed to deliver a positive result.
“We’re obviously disappointed. I have the same feelings as I did after Amiens and Brest,” he said.
“We conceded at the end of the game again, but it’s even more frustrating in a derby.”
Sylvinho told a press conference: “I don’t regret my starting XI. It’s a system that gives me more stability and helps my players.
“However, I’m very concerned about our results. All our defeats come in the same way. I have to find our problems and work on the system.”
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