Toulouse vs Evian Thonon Gaillard preview - Dupraz keen to build on PSG draw

Posted Saturday, August 30, 2014 by PA

Evian boss Pascal Dupraz is keen for his side to build on their morale-boosting 0-0 draw with Paris St Germain when they take on Toulouse on Saturday.

After losing the first two games of their Ligue 1 campaign 3-0 at home against Caen and then 6-2 at Rennes, the Pinks picked up an unlikely-looking point by holding champions PSG - who were reduced to 10 men in the second half - at Parc des Sports last week.

And Dupraz, quoted by www.etgfc.com, said ahead of Saturday's match at the Stadium Municipal: "The result against Paris St Germain has restored some morale for us.

"When one concedes nine goals in two games and then none against PSG, it means you are getting closer to reality.

"I hope the players will repeat on Saturday, with a similar performance, seriousness and tactical organisation.

"The defenders are not the only ones responsible for defending.

"Toulouse are difficult opponents. They are a team that work consistently."

Dupraz's sentiments have been echoed by Evian defender Kassim Abdallah.

"It is necessary to use this match against PSG and go for a result at Toulouse," Abdallah said.

"We need to have the same concentration defensively, because it has failed in previous matches.

"Confidence returns little by little. We know we can do good things in this championship.

"If we can do it against PSG, we can against sides like Toulouse."

Toulouse coach Alain Casanova was impressed by Evian's defensive showing against PSG and is also wary of the problems they can cause his team's own backline.

Casanova said: "They had a rough start, but they straightened things out against PSG by defending very well.

"Daniel Wass is probably their biggest danger in attack since he is the only one to have scored for them this season. He is able to play in many positions.

"But also let's not forget others - players of quality and experience in Cedric Barbosa and Olivier Sorlin. There is also youth and freshness with Gianni Bruno and Nicolas Benezet."

Meanwhile, Toulouse - who have so far won once and been beaten twice this season - have announced the signing of Tongo Doumbia from Wolves. The midfielder will not be available for this game.