COf course, the meeting between the Artesians and the Bretons was poor in chances, but in terms of accounting Lens still took a point. And especially the blood and gold defense did not concede a goal!
Strength on set pieces
Often put in difficulty on a free kick, as on Wednesday during the second Marseille goal (2-2), Lens was not surprised this time. The reasons for concern were however numerous before the meeting, Rennes being one of the best teams of Ligue 1 in the exercise. The Bretons have indeed scored nearly 30% of their goals this season on set pieces, direct and indirect.
Jonathan Gradit, strong head
In the first half, the Lensois central defender remained on the ground for a few moments, holding his face, following contact with Adrien Tuffert. More fear than harm, two minutes later, Gradit made a nice foray into the Rennes area before sending a cross for his attackers (38 ‘). Unfortunately for the former Caennais, the ball crossed the goal line on its overflow. Aside from this action, it is in his defensive role that Gradit has especially distinguished himself. Just before half-time, he notably managed to pass his shoulder in front of Martin Terrier, when the Rennais, at the entrance to the penalty area, was in an ideal position to strike.
The mercy of the referee Jérémy Stinat
In view of the slow motion, Yannick Cahuzac could have received a red card and not a yellow for having mimed a head butt in the direction of Jonas Martin at the very end of the game. Admittedly, the gesture of captain Lensois only grazed the face of the Rennes midfielder, but that could have been enough for the referee to exclude the player. Last November, in the English championship, Arsenal striker Nicolas Pépé had the bitter experience against Leeds.
Lens no longer loses at home
Failing to win its matches in its Bollaert stadium which still sounds so hollow, Lens has just completed two unbeaten matches at home. In December and January, the Sang et Ors had lost three of their four matches on their lawn. Since then, they have drawn against Marseille last Wednesday (2-2) and against Rennes tonight (0-0). In the ranking of the best Ligue 1 teams at home, the Lensois are now ninth.
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