Multiplex: 'Status Quo' reins for Ligue 1's relegation strugglers

It was as you were at the bottom of Ligue 1 McDonald's as six clubs in the bottom half of the table saw out draws during the Sunday afternoon multiplex.

Metz 0-0 Nantes

Ahead of this game, Benoit Tavenot said that Metz needed to win if they were to have any hope of beating the drop to Ligue 2 BKT. And they thought they had it in the dying seconds. Sadibou Sané put a long ball over the top for Gauthier Hein, who finished to give what looked like a crucial 1-0 win for Les Grenats.

However, after consultation with VAR, the goal was disallowed for a marginal offside, with Hein's boot behind Nantes' defensive line. It was a defence that received a blow just before half-time, when Tylel Tati was sent off (39'). Ultimately, the young defender's error went unpunished, but time is running out for Vahid Halilihodzic's men to play themselves out of danger.

Lorient 1-1 Paris FC

Of all the teams in action on Sunday afternoon, Lorient were by far the safest. Olivier Pantaloni's side are ninth in Ligue 1 McDonald's. European qualification looks beyond Les Merlus, but they confirmed that they wouldn't be dragged into a relegation battle, in large part thanks to their formidable home form. And that continued against a Paris FC side that came into this one looking to put more distance between themselves and the relegation places.

On a day in which Lorient celebrated their centenary, Bamba Dieng gave his side the lead from a Pablo Pagis corner (54'). However, Les Parisiens have been much improved under Antoine Kombouaré and, whilst the Kanak has been an instigator of their comeback, as has Marshall Munetsi, who continues to excel on loan from Wolverhampton Wanderers. His goal (74') ensures that Paris FC are still unbeaten since Kombouaré's arrival on the touchline. They are nine points clear of the relegation play-off spot and on course to remain in Ligue 1 McDonald's.

Le Havre 1-1 Auxerre

And as was the case across France on Sunday afternoon, there was nothing seperating Le Havre and Auxerre. This was a game that started quickly but fizzled out. Lassine Sinayoko gave L'AJA the lead (15') after combining with Danny Namaso. Currently the occupant of the relegation playoff spot and five points off OGC Nice in 15th, Christophe Pélissier's side needed a win.

But Le Havre, who are also in need of points to secure their safety, did not gift them. Simon Ebonog levelled things up with an excellent strike (23'). Thereafter, the chances dried up for both sides and both had to settle for just one point. As a result, it is 'As you were' at the bottom of the table on a day that could have had serious ramifications in the relegation battle.

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