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Montpellier go three up on PSG

2012-04-12 01:05:02

Montpellier are three points clear of Paris Saint-Germain in Ligue 1 after a classy 3-1 victory over Marseille at the Stade Velodrome on Wednesday night

Belhanda: Scored spectacular volley

The spectacular victory leaves La Paillade firmly on track for their first league title.

However, coach Rene Girard believes the trophy will be won by the team with the greater mental strength after his side set up a thrilling title race with PSG hot on their heels.

Les Parisiens spent over 80 million euros to boost their ranks in the off-season, but still look far from convincing even though they’re three points behind Montpellier.

Girard told Sky Sports: “We’re entering that phase where everything will be come down to mental toughness, especially when you are in a battle with Paris (PSG).

“But we are here and if they are better, they will show it on the field.”

Carlo Ancelotti’s troops have bagged 63 points and have seven games remaining with bottom club Auxerre next in line.

Montpellier’s slick one-touch passing and strong defence showed they are more than ready for a dogfight with PSG, with prolific duo Younes Belhanda and Olivier Giroud in sparkling form.

Morocco midfielder Belhanda scored two goals - one of them a jaw-dropping volley - while Giroud joined in to up his tally to 19 goals this season.

“We can’t hide anymore. We all firmly believe we will clinch the title,” Giroud said.