Paris, Dec 1 (IANS) Saint-Etienne recorded a rare derby win over arch-rivals Lyon, while Bordeaux returned winning ways in French Ligue 1.
Christophe Galtier’s team, having struggled for goals this season, dominated the match throughout and Sunday claimed a 3-0 victory over Lyon, who had not lost in 15 competitive visits to their Rhone Valley rivals’ home, reports Xinhua.
Moustapha Sall opened the scoring at 18 minutes with a header before Ricky van Wolfswinkel doubled the lead for the hosts five minutes before the break with his third strike in four outings.
Renaud Cohade capped an excellent team display in the 68th minute to wrap up the victory, which lifted St-Etienne back to fifth place, just one point behind third-placed Lyon.
It also put an end to Lyon’s 10-match unbeaten streak after the seven-time French champions’.
Earlier Sunday, Mali striker Cheick Diabate scored his sixth goal of the season to help Bordeaux nip a 1-0 win over Lille at home and move level on points with Lyon, who have a better goal difference.
“I was pleased with our performance, particularly in defence,” said the home side’s coach Willy Sagnol.
“Aside from the clean sheet itself, we eradicated some mistakes that have been creeping into our game recently.”