Lorient have avoided dropping into the Ligue 1 relegation zone following a convincing 3-1 win against a lacklustre Metz side.

It took the hosts 13 minutes to breach their opponents' defence for the first time, with Jordan Ayew bundling the ball home from close range following a swift team move.

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Raphael Guerreiro made in two in the 37th minute when a corner fell kindly for him just outside the box, and he smashed a low strike straight into the bottom corner.

Things got even worse for Metz just before the break as Benjamin Jeannot poached a third from inside the box right on the stoke of half time, following a set piece.

The visitors were quick off the starting blocks in the second period, reducing the deficit in the 46th minute through Yeni N'Gbakoto, who lashed into the top corner after being picked out in front of goal by Gaetan Bussmann.

However, it proved to be no more than consolation for Metz as Lorient closed up shop and held out for the win that they needed to avoid slipping into the bottom three.