And Sochaux it is...

Tomorrow is the penultimate match for les Girondins de Bordeaux.  Their last league match will be next week away at Lens.  Marseilles have won the Ligue 1 trophy, their first since 1992.  Bordeaux seemed to have the trophy locked in their cabinet until a February slide in form put the Bordelaise out of reach in the final stages.  They are sitting in 6th, just 2 points out of 5th.  Although the title hopes are gone, there is much to play for, with the Champions League position still up for grabs.

More importantly, tomorrow's home match against Sochaux will mark the last time that Marouane Chamakh plays in the Stade Chaban-Delmas for Bordeaux.  He has stated that it will be bittersweet for him; he's grown up at the club (started when he was 10) and has spent his entire professional career with the Marine et Blanc.
Girondins.com announced today that 5-10 minutes after the match Marouane will be honored by the Virage Sud (a Girondins supporters group...they have 3) for his contributions throughout the years.  I can't imagine what will be running through his mind as he sets foot on the pitch for the last time.  I hope it's a wonderful match for him and that he scores for the fans who have been ardent supporters.
As I've said in earlier posts, I'm happy for Marouane to move on to the EPL, where he will compete in the toughest league in the world.  He's fast, and willing to "take one for the team" as he's heading in goals from unusual positions.  Arsenal needs him.  Bordeaux will miss him.  It's nice to be needed, eh Marouane?
The only drawback to joining an EPL team?  He will now pay 50% taxes on his wages.

Two young supporters show their appreciation

Chammie training with his team this week at Haillan

Allez, Girondins!  Go out as fighters!