Barcolas winner sends PSG top despite lack of confidence
Manager Luis Enrique noted that Paris Saint Germain appeared short on assurance even though Bradley Barcolas clever lobbed effort propelled the title holders back to the summit of Ligue 1 via a 1-0 victory at Auxerre on Friday.
The 23 year old forward posed the greatest danger as PSG bombarded the hosts net across the full 90 minutes.
However until Barcola netted with 10 minutes remaining it seemed the home side might secure a goalless stalemate against their prestigious opponents for the second successive season partly due to an outstanding performance from Auxerre keeper Donovan Leon.
Luis Enrique expressed dissatisfaction with the display despite the success provisionally restoring PSG above Lens who might reclaim the top spot with a win at third placed Marseille on Saturday.
"It is quite evident it is an odd phase. We are applying pressure to Lens which is crucial" said Luis Enrique whose continental title holders endured a surprising 2-1 loss at Sporting Lisbon in the Champions League earlier this week.
"We are missing some assurance and precision in converting opportunities it was tough" he continued.
"The squad members are not robots today we lacked precision in our distribution and ball circulation.
"We are able to improve that as all are aware of the personal talent within the squad."
Auxerre meanwhile continue to languish in the drop zone six points adrift of salvation.
Barcola threat
PSG launched with fierce intensity and might have led by three within the opening 10 minutes.
Barcola was denied twice by Leon while a stretching Sinaly Diomande intercepted Georgian forward Khvicha Kvaratskhelias attempt on target.
Leon intervened once more shortly before the 30 minute point to deflect a near range header from Goncalo Ramos.
The shot stopper also executed a double block with his feet during a frantic melee in the penalty area to thwart Kvaratskhelia and young prospect Ibrahim Mbaye.
The openings persisted post interval as Barcola sent a strike astray and Kvaratskhelias attempt was nudged narrowly beyond the upright.
Barcola additionally witnessed a lob land just atop the crossbar.
Auxerre duo Danny Namaso and Lassine Sinayoko attempted long range efforts that posed no issue for PSG custodian Lucas Chevalier.
Barcola remained the primary hazard and following another rapid break along the flank he lofted a delivery over Leon who had advanced hastily from his area yet replacement Desire Doue inexplicably poked wide of the unattended net from within the six yard line.
Nevertheless Barcola proved unstoppable this time as Ballon dOr recipient Ousmane Dembele released him after Auxerre were exposed on the break having pushed forward excessively from a set piece corner.