PSG get value from Kalou

By Christian Châtelet

Paris Saint-Germain FC defeated FC Metz 4-1 in the opening match of the 2005/06 Ligue 1 season - with home debutant Bonaventure Kalou involved in all four of his team's goals.

Early opener
It took four minutes and 55 seconds to one of the least prolific leagues in Europe last term at 2.17 goals per game to deliver its first of this campaign. Jérôme Rothen's pin-point corner-kick was headed in by Kalou, signed from AJ Auxerre for €10m.

Lead doubles
On 38 minutes Kalou made the second on a counterattack just as Metz had their first opportunities. The Ivory Coast player found Edouard Cissé deep in the box to double the lead.

Rothen volley
Kalou's show was not over. Five minutes into second half, his long-range cross was volleyed in by Rothen. Metz signing Jung-Hwan Ahn ensured his too had a scoring debut, pulling one back eight minutes after coach Joël Muller gave him his debut on the hour.

Victory complete
Although Metz now pushed for a comeback, PSG sealed thegame when Kalou found substitute Christophe Landrin, whose diving header went over Grégory Wimbée in the visitors' goal.

Further fixtures
Weekend one of the season continues tomorrow with 2004/05 runners up LOSC Lille Métropole welcoming UEFA Cup contenders Stade Rennais FC among several choice fixtures, before champions Olympique Lyonnais start their quest for a fifth title in a row on Sunday at Le Mans UC 72.