Domenech pleased with gritty win

Raymond Domenech hailed his players' application after watching Les Bleus struggle to overcome Costa Rica on Wednesday night. France toiled for much of the evening, falling behind to a Carlos Hernandez strike before battling back to win 2-1 with goals from Franck Ribery and debutant Mathieu Valbuena. "The desire to win came at the conclusion of a week of work together," said Domenech, who also pointed to a spell of high-altitude training in Tignes as a factor for a jaded display. "It was not easy to prepare for an international match after Tignes but they confirmed what they wanted to do." He added: "When they have that faith and desire they do not feel tired. They pleased the fans, they are satisfied, happy and less tired."

Source: PA