The return of Dominique Malonga to Tarbes did not work to the advantage of the Lionesses. The TGB team won at the Quai de l’Adour in Tarbes with a score of 73 to 61.
Tarbes Gespe Bigorre (TGB) shone in their duel against Lyon this weekend, winning by a score of 73 to 61 in a meeting full of twists and turns at the Quai de l’Adour. Thanks to a solid collective performance and individuals at the top of their game, Tarbes was able to overthrow the Lionesses, despite a spectacular comeback attempt by the latter in the second half.
A dominating first half
From the kick-off, Tarbes imposed its rhythm, quickly taking the lead thanks to an intractable defense and a well-orchestrated attack. Led by Camille Droguet (18 points, 6 rebounds, 9 assists, 26 rating) and Murjanatu Liman Musa (16 points, 12 rebounds, 25 rating), the Tarbaises left little space for the Lyonnaises, who were struggling to find solutions.
The first quarter ended with a 22-15 advantage for Tarbes, before the locals widened the gap further in the second act, reaching a comfortable lead at half-time (41-30).
Lyon hangs on but cracks at the end of the match
Back from the locker room, Lyon, led by young Dominique Malonga (15 points, 6 rebounds) and Francesca Pasa (12 points, 7 assists), showed a completely different side. Thanks to an excellent third quarter won 23-14, the Lionesses came back to score, even managing to equalize at 55-55 at the start of the last quarter.
But Tarbes, determined not to let the home victory slip away, was able to react with authority. Under the leadership of its leaders, the TGB players accelerated in the final minutes, inflicting a fatal 18-8 on Lyon in the final period.
Outstanding individual performances
Tarbes side:
Camille Droguet: A top-flight performance with 18 points (54.5% shooting), 6 rebounds, 9 assists, and an evaluation of 26. She was omnipresent on the court.
Murjanatu Liman Musa: Solid in the paint with 16 points (60% shooting) and 12 rebounds.
Marina Ewodo: Precious with 11 points, notably from three points (3/4), and impressive efficiency (66.7% shooting).
Lyon side:
Dominique Malonga: True to his talent with 15 points and 6 rebounds.
Francesca Pasa: An inspired leader with 12 points and 7 assists.
Tea Cleante: Active with 12 points and a shooting percentage of 55.6%.
The final word
With this convincing victory, the TGB confirms its solidity at home and continues to show a competitive face in this championship. Lyon, despite a good reaction in the second half, leaves empty-handed and will have to correct its lack of consistency to hope for better in future meetings.
One thing is certain: Tarbes was able to send a strong message to its competitors thanks to a well-oiled collective and brilliant individual performances.
