Stade Reims vs Toulouse preview - Casanova taking nothing for granted

Posted Friday, September 12, 2014 by PA

Toulouse head coach Alain Casanova is refusing to read too much into Reims' dismal start to the season ahead of his side's clash on Saturday.

Reims have just one point from their opening four matches in Ligue 1, losing the last three and conceding nine goals in the process after opening up the campaign with a superb 2-2 draw with Paris St Germain.

Yet Casanova is wary, particularly as his own club have lost both of their away games to date.

"Like other teams, we respect and fear Reims," said Casanova.

"Although they are where they are, they have had problems which they will seek to correct and improve. They have recently recuited people to help with this.

"Our visits there have always been complicated, and it is a tough stadium in which to play because there is a lot of support behind their players.

"Reims also play a fast-paced and intense game but we have worked hard over the past two weeks, as well using the international break to recuperate, so we are ready."

It required an 88th-minute penalty from Martin Braithwaite to secure a 2-1 win at the Stade Auguste Delaune 11 months ago, with Casanova expecting another tight, nervy encounter on this occasion.

"These matches are always uncertain because teams like Reims play quick balls into an opponent's area, requiring a lot of intensity and engagement," added Casanova.

"Yes, their season has been difficult so far, but they've changed their coach and lost a key player in (Grzegorz) Krychowiak (sold to Sevilla for B£4million).

"But I believe they still largely have the potential for a good season."

Toulouse are without Colombia international Abel Aguilar after the holding midfielder suffered an injury to his right calf in last weekend's 1-0 home win over Evian.

Reims, meanwhile, have midfielder Prince Oniangue starting a three-match ban following his red card in the 4-2 defeat at Lens last Saturday.