OM - Bordeaux (1-0): Thauvin winner solidifies podium place

OM continued its fine form in 2018 with a victory against a stubborn Bordeaux side at the Orange Vélodrome on Sunday.

Following on from Thursday’s significant win in the Europa League against Braga, OM returned to full strength in the league, and it showed in a first half almost completely dominated by the hosts.

Jordan Amavi struck the first meaningful effort of the match, his stinging shot spilled by Benoit Costil but Valère Germain was unable to fire in the follow-up.

OM progressed, settling into a decent rhythm of ‘pass and move’, before Costil spilled another attempt from a Payet corner. Germain did get an effort on target here, but Nicolas de Preville repelled the goal-bound effort on the line.

Nevertheless, OM were soon rewarded. Payet’s teasing cross was headed in by Florian Thauvin - whose 15th goal in the current Ligue 1 season equalled his career best set in the last campaign.

After the break, the hosts did not let up, but were met by a sterner Bordeaux side for the second period.

The visitors saw more of the ball, but did not seriously trouble Yohann Pelé in the OM goal, as the ‘keeper picked up a second clean sheet in a row.

It may be a narrow win, but one of significant importance for Rudi Garcia’s side who are now 6 points ahead of Lyon in 3rd ahead of the anticipated clash against Paris Saint-Germain next weekend.

Attention turns first however, to finishing the job against Braga in Portugal on Thursday to seal a place in the UEFA Europa League last 16.