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France: Ajaccio deny Marseille first league win of season [Sat Aug 27th, 2005]
Paris (Reuters) - A late penalty by Rafik Saifi gave Ajaccio a 1-1 draw at struggling Olympique Marseille, who are still chasing their first Ligue 1 victory of the season.
Striker Christian Gimenez headed home from close range a on the hour to give the hosts the lead but Saifi equalised with four minutes to go after Lucas Pereira was fouled.
Marseille lacked inspiration and looked tired after qualifying for the UEFA Cup by thrashing Deportivo La Coruna 5-1.
The troubled southern team lie 18th in the 20-side standings with two draws and three defeats in five league games.
"It's rather frustrating because we played a good match," defender Lorik Cana said. "Ajaccio are a tough side to play. They are very consistent and solid."
Ajaccio coach Rolland Courbis was satisfied with his team.
"I'm happy with the point we took here," he said. "I would say that we could have won with little help from the luck."
Ajaccio extended their unbeaten run to five matches, including one win and four draws.
Leaders Paris St Germain host Nice later on and champions Olympique Lyon face a tough challenge at AJ Auxerre.
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