Mathieu Valbuena's second-half free kick set Marseille on their way to a win against a resilient Lorient side and keep pace with Paris Saint-Germain and Monaco at the top of Ligue 1.

The opening goal came just before the hour mark following concerted pressure from L'OM, but the visitors could have scored more had they taken their opportunities.

Indeed, Valbuena had chances to score either side of half time but put his efforts wide of Fabien Audard's goal.

Lorient almost found an immediate equaliser when Bryan Pele's shot was saved by Marseille keeper Steve Mandanda.

Andre Ayew sealed all three points in stoppage time after Saber Khalifa headed the ball into his path before he beat Audard.

The result means that L'OM draw level on points with Monaco having played a game more.