A first-half Prince Oniangue goal has given Reims all three points against Evian TG to keep the away side in real danger of relegation from Ligue 1.
The hosts got off to a strong start and tested Jesper Hansen as early as the fourth minute with a stinging drive from Nicolas de Preville.
Evian were playing their part in the opening exchanges and Eric Tie Bi might have done better from a tight angle in the box as he dragged an effort wide of the near post.
A chance was finally taken on 30 minutes through Oniangue, who was set up by Aissa Mandi to slam the ball past the keeper from very close range.
Evian came forward looking for the equaliser that might have given them an important point, but they were not good enough on the night and now sit just one point above fellow strugglers Sochaux.
