Caen have climbed out of the relegation zone with a 2-1 victory over Lorient at the Stade Michel-d'Ornano.

Caen broke the deadlock in just the third minute when Herve Bazile's inviting cross was powerfully headed in by Lenny Nangis.

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Despite the early setback, Lorient looked dangerous going forward and were close to an equaliser when Remi Vercoutre was forced to push away a Mehdi Mostefa header.

Jordan Ayew was responsible for getting Lorient back on level terms as the French forward fired home from the penalty spot after being chopped down inside the box by Damien Da Silva.

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Lorient finished the first half strongly, but were unable to turn their pressure into more goals before the interval.

The advantage was gifted to Caen once again after the break when the referee spotted a handball from Lamine Gassama, whose mistake allowed Mathieu Duhamel to restore his side's lead with a calm penalty.

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Caen continued to remain positive, with Nangis forcing Benjamin Leconte into a reflex save as he looked poised to head home at the near post.

Lorient survived the long spells of Caen pressure without conceding again, but were unable to find a late goal themselves as the hosts secured all three points.