Gazelec Ajaccio have held off a brief fightback from Reims to record a third Ligue 1 win in a row with a 2-1 victory at Stade Auguste Delaune II.

Reims had won all six of the previous meetings between the sides at their own ground and they missed a half-chance in the opening minutes when Aissa Mandi headed off-target from close range when he was found by Diego's corner.

© Getty Images

Both sides had chances to score the opener within a minute of each other midway through the half, first when Issiaga Sylla shot wide from 20 yards, before Diego saw his header come back off the post after he had met Hamari Traore's cross.

The visitors had won their last two matches and they continued their fine recent form by taking the lead when Khalid Boutaib was found by Kader Mangane and smashed past Kossi Agassa.

© Getty Images

Nicolas de Preville was denied well by Clement Maury as the hosts looked for an equaliser, but Jacques Zoua's rocket doubled the advantage with just 19 minutes to play.

Reims did find a goal back, their first strike in the league since September 25, when Greyjohn Kyei netted, but they were unable to prevent themselves slipping to a sixth successive defeat.