Lorient secured consecutive Ligue 1 victories for the first time in 21 attempts by beating AS Monaco 1-0 at Stade du Moustoir - Yves Allainmat.

The result prevented Monaco from finishing the weekend at the top of the table, while Lorient climbed six places despite having won only four of their past 11 competitive home matches, drawing three and losing four.

It was a subdued opening, with neither side able to establish control in the final third. There was only one attempt in the first 15 minutes, when Ansu Fati headed over the crossbar.

Possession was evenly shared, but much of the game was played in a crowded midfield. Both teams repeatedly moved the ball sideways or back towards their defence, producing few openings.

Matthis Abline’s attempt from 25 yards, which flew into the crowd, reflected the lack of quality during a disappointing first half.

As Monaco pushed their full-backs forward, they left space for Lorient to attack behind them. Arsene Kouassi found room on several occasions but could not deliver a final ball for a team-mate.

Monaco created their best opportunity of the opening period after Ibrahima Balde used excellent skill to open up the Lorient defence on the half-hour mark. His shot was blocked, however, and three further efforts from the visitors before the break failed to seriously trouble the hosts.

Monaco started the second half with greater urgency and produced three chances within two minutes of the restart. Lorient remained competitive through their physical approach, with Montassar Talbi and Nathaniel Adjei providing a formidable defensive barrier.

The pair had won nine duels between them by the end of the match, helping Lorient withstand sustained pressure and prevent Monaco from finding a way through.

Lorient were awarded a penalty after Flavio Nazhinho clumsily challenged Dembo Sylla just after the hour. Noah Cadiou made no mistake from the spot, sending a confident right-footed effort beyond Lukas Hradecky.

Monaco were forced to take greater risks as they searched for an equaliser and spent much of the closing stages on the front foot. Their finishing remained a problem, though, with only three of their 13 attempts on target with 10 minutes remaining.

Lorient came closest to adding a second goal when Sylla struck the post with an effort from outside the penalty area.

The defeat leaves Monaco fourth in Ligue 1 on 14 points, the same total as each of the three teams above them. Lamine Camara of AS Monaco was named Flashscore’s Man of the Match.