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Despite the score,
everyone had an enjoyable day in France yesterday, and
many are expected to stay on for the fans friendly
arranged by the fans of Le Havre. The crowd consisted of
around 1,350 fans - most were from Brighton!
This was our first
game in preparation for the new season, so no one was
expecting a miracle. The team had travelled out at the
start of the week to train for the game, and as part of
their overall training programme getting ready for the
start of the season. Mark McGhee said after the game
that he has been pleased overall with the players
performance in these training sessions.
A senior debut was
made by Richard Martin who took position in goal, and
McCammon and Knight were upfront for the start of the
game. Kazim remained on the bench for the start of the
game.
The game started well,
and we almost gained the lead within minutes after a
shot by Jarrett. McCammon was also determined to show he
wanted to be in the team next season by taking an early
chance, however both failed to get the ball in the back
of the net. Despite these early chances, there was not a
constant barrage of chances for the team.
At half time, McGhee
made a number of changes which would give other players
a chance to prove themselves. Martin was taken off,
despite his excellent save earlier in the game, and
Sullivan, who was also making his debut, took his place.
McCammon was also replaced by the Coca Cola kid Kazim.
Shortly after the
start of the second half, Albion were reduced to ten men
due to Butters receiving treatment, and this gave Le
Havre the chance to take the lead. Jonathan Roufosse hit
the crossbar, before
Guillaume Hoarau made the score 1-0.
As the second half
progressed, you could feel the pressure become more
intense. The team were pushing for an equaliser, and
Kazim almost got it. He got past two defenders, only to
be stopped by Le Havre keeper Steve Mandana.
Le Havre never gave
up, and came back in the final minute of the game with
another goal. Jean Michel Lesage
made the score 2-0 to end the game... |