Baisieux, France – The Amiens Université Club Badminton faced a tough challenge on Saturday, March 14th, falling to league-leading BC Baisieux in a 6-2 decision. While the result didn’t favor the visitors, the team demonstrated improvement from their earlier season matchup, securing two points against a formidable opponent.
Amiens had previously lost 1-7 in the first phase of the Pré-Nationale competition. Traveling to Baisieux, they aimed to build on that experience, but faced a stronger Baisieux squad bolstered by a more competitive roster than the one they hosted earlier in the season. The disparity in team strength was particularly noticeable in the women’s matches, presenting an immediate hurdle for Ophélie Béron and her teammates.
Marie Lasquellec (R4) was the first to fall, losing to Elodie Pouly (N3) in straight sets (8-21, 13-21). Thomas Binois (N3) also suffered a defeat, succumbing to Mael Carnez (N2) with a score of (19-21, 13-21). Amidst these early setbacks, Yvon Crépelle (N2) provided a spark, battling Rémi Chrétien (N2) in a grueling match lasting over an hour. Crépelle ultimately secured a crucial point for Amiens, winning a hard-fought contest (24-26, 21-16, 21-16).
Hoping to capitalize on Crépelle’s momentum, the mixed doubles pairing of Leo Crépin and Marion Uguen (N2/N3) faced Despinoy/Marcot (N1/N2), but were heavily defeated (8-21, 14-21). Ophélie Béron (R4) also struggled against Rachel Leduc (N2), losing (7-21, 10-21). The second mixed doubles team of Thomas Binois and Marie Lasquellec (R5/R4) set up some resistance against Chrétien/Facon (N2), but ultimately fell short (7-21, 17-21).
The match concluded with Ophélie Béron and Marion Uguen (N3) being outmatched by Marcot/Pouly (N2/R4) (9-21, 12-21). However, Yvon Crépelle and Léo Crépin (N2) managed to secure another point for Amiens, achieving a three-set victory over Carnez/Despinoy (N3/N1) (19-21, 21-17, 21-17).
A Step in the Right Direction
Despite the more lopsided contest compared to the first encounter, Amiens managed to win two matches, an improvement over the single win they secured previously against Baisieux. Ophélie Béron acknowledged the strength of their opponents, stating, “We’re going to be satisfied with this result, which is very good considering their roster. It’s a team with a high level.” She also praised her teammates, particularly Yvon Crépelle, highlighting his exceptional performance and contribution of two points.
The Amiens UC Badminton team has gained a point in the standings and now holds a six-point advantage over Quesnoy-sur-Deûle and a seven-point lead over Lille. While mathematically they could still be overtaken, it would require a significant turnaround from those teams, who are scheduled to face each other on March 28th. Amiens will then host Hersin-Coupigny the following day, hoping to return to winning form.
Pré-Nationale, 8th journée: BC Baisieux (1st, 39 pts) – Amiens UC Badminton (4th, 20 pts): 6-2
Dorine Cocagne
Crédit photo : Théo Bégler – Gazettesports.fr
The Amiens UC Badminton team will look to build on this performance as they continue their Pré-Nationale campaign. Their next match against Hersin-Coupigny on March 29th will be a key test as they aim to solidify their position in the league standings. Fans can follow the team’s progress and find more information on the Amiens UC Badminton website and their Facebook page.
