On Even FootingPOSTED: 6 May 2011 On Even Footing The only thing Olympique de Marseilles needed to claim the Ligue 1 top spot was win 1 game; instead, they got a draw. I haven’t a clue how hard Didier Deschamps is kicking himself for this setback, but if it were me I’d be going bonkers. One win away and they get a draw. Fancy that. Marseille, currently at 2nd place, face 3rd placers Lyon this weekend, and I reckon it’ll be a mad scuffle for a win. For Marseille, a win gives them the top spot; for Lyon, it holds off 4th placers Paris Saint-Germain, who could rise to 3rd (pushing Lyon to 4th) with 1 win.
The numbers, however, put hosts Lyon at a disadvantage, with only 2 wins in their last 10 meetings with Marseilles. The other games ended in an even 4 draws and 4 Marseille victories. The sides’ individual forms (at home for Lyon, away for Marseilles) place them on even footing, with an identical 5 wins and 2 draws. They also drew a total of 3 times in 5 games in Lyon territory. While both teams are desperate for a win, the trends suggest (and I would agree) that a draw is a more likely outcome. Sorry chaps, maybe you’ll get your win next time. Verdict: Draw |
