Valenciennes end year positively

Valenciennes ensured that they head into Ligue 1's winter break seventh in the table courtesy of a 2-1 victory over ten-man Evian this afternoon.

The home side broke the deadlock with just 14 minutes on the clock following a bright start. Rudy Mater was the creator as he lofted a pass into the path of Gregory Pujol, who slotted the ball into the net from inside the area.

However, despite their continued domination, the hosts were pegged back in the 32nd minute. Yannick Sagbo played in Saber Khelifa and the striker took one touch before sending the ball beyond the reach of Nicolas Penneteau in goal.

Following a largely uneventful opening to the second half, visiting Evian were reduced to ten men in the 73rd minute when Djakaridja Kone was punished for a late sliding challenge on Opa Nguette.

It took Valenciennes just two minutes to make their numerical advantage count as former Liverpool striker Anthony Le Tallec picked out Jose Saez 18 yards from goal and the Belgian sent the ball into the right-hand corner of the net.

Mathieu Dossevi had a chance to extend the home team's lead from the penalty spot in the closing stages, but he missed from 12 yards out.