Football Club Burglary & Weekend Results: US Mas-d’Azil Reports Theft & Wins 4-0

Le Mas-d’Azil, a small commune in southwestern France, is known for its prehistoric cave and, increasingly, for its spirited amateur football club, US Mas d’Azil. However, the club recently faced a setback far removed from the pitch: a puzzling burglary that left them without essential equipment just before a crucial weekend of matches. The incident, reported by club president Benjamin Commenge, saw the theft of a television, a washing machine, laundry detergent, and a Nike bag containing two sets of goalkeeper jerseys.

“We had an unpleasant surprise last weekend,” Commenge stated. “The club’s technical room was targeted by burglars. They stole the TV, the washing machine, the laundry detergent, as well as a Nike bag with our logo containing two sets of goalkeeper jerseys.” The theft occurred between Tuesday at 9:30 PM and Wednesday at 4:00 PM, and a formal complaint has been filed with the local gendarmerie, according to Commenge.

Reserve Team Falls to Saint-Girons in Tight Contest

Despite the off-field disruption, US Mas d’Azil’s reserve team took to the field, traveling to Saint-Girons for a league match. The game proved to be a closely contested affair, with both sides creating opportunities in challenging conditions. Saint-Girons ultimately secured a 1-0 victory, scoring in the 70th minute after a well-worked team move. The US Mas d’Azil reserve team fought hard, but were unable to find an equalizer. The club praised the sportsmanship of their opponents and the quality of the officiating.

The report detailed a balanced start to the match, with both teams attempting to establish their rhythm despite the weather and pitch conditions. Saint-Girons posed a threat through their left flank, but Gaël and the Mas d’Azil defense held firm. Swan and the visiting attack generated chances, with Gino particularly lively, but Saint-Girons maintained territorial dominance. The first half ended scoreless. After the break, Saint-Girons regained control, eventually breaking the deadlock with their 70th-minute goal. Despite a late push, the US Mas d’Azil reserves couldn’t overcome the deficit. They are scheduled to face Varilhes, currently second in the league, on Saturday, April 4th, at 8:00 PM local time.

First Team Dominates Escosse in 4-0 Victory

The US Mas d’Azil first team enjoyed a more positive result, convincingly defeating Escosse 4-0 at home. The visitors arrived with a depleted squad, which contributed to the Azilians’ dominance. Captain Robin opened the scoring in the 30th minute with a well-placed shot, and Mathieu Chauvet added a second from a corner kick. Laurent, celebrating a recent personal milestone – the birth of his child – scored his 13th goal of the season, extending the lead to 3-0. Lucas completed the scoring before halftime, setting up Mathéo for a tap-in.

The second half was cut short due to Escosse being reduced to just seven players, forcing the referee to prematurely end the match. The victory allowed US Mas d’Azil to reclaim third place in the league standings, capitalizing on a draw by Auzatois. The team will next host Rieux-de-Pelleport 2 on Saturday, April 4th, at 6:00 PM local time. The club’s strong performance comes despite the recent setback of the burglary, demonstrating their resilience and focus.

Elsewhere in the Arize-Lèze football school system, the women’s leisure team secured a resounding 11-2 victory over Rieux-de-Pelleport. The U18 men’s team fell to a 3-1 defeat against ASPTT Toulouse, although the U15 men’s team drew 3-3 with Mirepoix. The U12-U13 and U8-U9 teams participated in tournaments in Pamiers and Mazères.

The village of Le Mas-d’Azil, situated in the Ariège department, is perhaps best known for the Grotte du Mas d’Azil, a significant prehistoric cave site. The cave, formed by the Arize River, has been inhabited for around 30,000 years and is a key location for understanding the Azilian culture. The football club, while a more recent addition to the area’s history, has become an important part of the local community, and the recent burglary has understandably caused concern and frustration.

The incident highlights the challenges faced by amateur sports clubs, which often rely on limited resources and volunteer efforts. The loss of equipment, even seemingly minor items like a television and washing machine, can have a significant impact on a club’s operations. The club is now appealing for support from the community as they seek to replace the stolen items and continue providing opportunities for local footballers.

Next up for the US Mas d’Azil first team is their match against Rieux-de-Pelleport 2 on Saturday, April 4th, at 6:00 PM local time. The reserve team will travel to face Varilhes at 8:00 PM the same evening. Fans are encouraged to come out and support the club as they navigate this challenging period.