In a thrilling encounter between Pau FC and AS Saint-Etienne on 23rd January, the hosts were unable to find the back of the net, leaving AS Saint-Etienne to edge the game 1-0. The primary decider for the game's outcome was an early goal by AS Saint-Etienne. With the only shot at target finding the net in the 38th minute of the first half, AS Saint-Etienne managed to hold off Pau FC, claiming a hard-fought victory.

Pau FC really struggled to break down the visiting side's defence as reflected by the fact that they didn't register a single offside throughout the match. Despite earning three corners, Pau FC evidently failed to capitalize on these set piece opportunities. This essentially points towards a lack of coordination in the attacking third of the field.

Defensively, Pau FC allowed AS Saint-Etienne eight corners, suggesting the defensive line was kept under a certain amount of pressure. Although the visitors managed to catch the home side's defence offside only once, it was a clear indicator of the active offside trap employed by AS Saint-Etienne.

Notifying the disciplinary side of the game, Pau FC received two yellow cards that disrupted their game plan and flow. One was handed out late in the first half, and the second one occurred in the final quarter of the game, which potentially could have hampered their late push for an equalizer.

As for AS Saint-Etienne, they maintained a clean slate in terms of disciplinary actions with no yellow or red cards. This spoke volumes about their disciplined approach and controlled aggression throughout the match. Furthermore, the fact that AS Saint-Etienne committed just one more foul than Pau FC, highlights their tactfulness in pressure situations.

In conclusion, the game was decided by an early goal from AS Saint-Etienne combined with a defensive resilience that prevented the hosts from gathering any real momentum. The discipline maintained by the visiting team was commendable and it allowed AS Saint-Etienne to control the tempo and secure their slender lead. On the other hand, Pau FC's inability to convert their opportunities, coupled with the timing of their received yellow cards disrupted their attacking rhythm and eventually proved decisive in their loss.

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