(Ligue 1 2023/2024): Highlights CLERMONT - RC LENS

Clermont were looking to continue their upturn in form and lift themselves out of the relegation zone as they hosted last year's runners-up Lens on Saturday evening. The Sion have won the last three encounters between the two sides but having to make do without defender Kevin Danso this time round. Lens on the front foot straight away as Eli Naui drove through the midfield. It was played to Frankowski in the box but Clermont could clear. Abdul Salman was able to gather though before Ruben Aguilar sent in a cross for Elia Wahi and it was a deft header to open the scoring. The number 9 with his second goal of the campaign for his new team. Maury Dow left with no chance. Clermont were looking to respond as Shea Kunate sent it in for Grayjean Kaye but it's a sensational stop from Brice Samba. The France goalkeeper with a point-blank save to deny the forward. And there was another chance for last before half-time. As Eli Naui's shot was deflected high. Headed on by Thomasson for Wahi but Diaw parried it away. And tempers were flaring before half-time as Wahi clashed with Ali Nusaidu after a rough tackle. Referee Benoit Milot called the players over and both were dismissed. The last striker with a second yellow card in a matter of minutes. As Clermont coach Pascal Gastin was also sent to the stands for demonstrating. Both sides down to 10 going into the second half but Lens still had the momentum. As Maury Diaw was able to beat Guilavoque into a long ball. But the goalkeeper played it straight to Thomasson and the midfielder finished into an empty net. Some good anticipation from the Frenchman to sense the pass and double his side's lead. Clermont was still looking dangerous from the wings though as Neto Borgia sent it in for Kaye. But the striker puts it just wide. The cross went straight past Brice Samba. But Kaye was unable to react in time. Lens looking to put the result beyond doubt heading into the last 10 minutes. And Sotoko found Said. The forward with some great footwork in the box to set Oeschier down before rifling it in from a tight angle. A feisty affair at the Stade Gabriel Montpierre but Lens were able to wrap up a comfortable win in the end. Franquez's men making it 8 unbeaten. Firing on all cylinders ahead of their midweek trip to London. We'll be right back.