After being relegated from the second division at the end of the 2022/2023 season, the Portuguese in Pau knew they were rebuilding. However, they believed in going up until the end, only falling short by a small point from Bazas. After a very complicated start to the tournament (2 wins and 5 losses), the team posted an almost perfect record over the last 15 days: 12 wins against only three draws.
“It's a big disappointment not to go up,” admits Jérôme Launay. We dropped a lot of points at the start of the season, including three 1-0 defeats (to Lescar (B), Puy de Lescar and Pardes, editor's note). »
Three prolific scorers
Despite this string of poor results, the Lusitanian commanders trusted their technicians. A good initiative considering these 15 matches without any setbacks, during which the team showed impressive attacking efficiency (scored 42 goals, 53 in total in 22 matches).
“This is not a surprise for me. We had quality players and a forward-looking game, and we were able to create spontaneity among us,” analyzes Jerome Launay. In addition to Javier Gouveia (16 goals), we were also able to count on Dorian Lartigue (8) and Mansur Magomadov ( 7).
Defense is also at the top
The Portuguese also performed well on the other side of the pitch. With 22 goals conceded (an average of one per match), they finished as the best defense in their group. “If there was a challenge for the best goalkeeper, Hugo Pitat would certainly have won it. I am satisfied with the state of mind shown by the players on all lines. What we have done this season will allow us to save time for next year. »
During this period the Lusitanians will once again aim to climb to R2.
