Atlético Malagueño defeated FC Vilafranca by two goals to nil at La Rosaleda, in the return leg of the first round of Second Division B promotion play-offs. Manel Ruano’s boys dominated ball possession and reached the rival area, however the goals didn’t come until the second half. Nesyri had two good chances in the first half, but the Moroccan striker didn’t manage to find the net.
After half-time, the Blue and Whites’ superiority increased, and over 4,000 Malaguistas inside the stadium got behind the reserve team. Kuki made the most of a rebound inside the area in minute 71, to give Malagueño a 1-0 lead in the tie. Six minutes later (77’), Ontiveros from the left crossed the ball to Nesyri inside the area, which he slammed into the back of the net. This goal sealed the definitive 2-0 lead on the score board. Tension gripped the final stages of play, as FC Vilafranca ended the game with a player and their coach being sent off.
Atlético Malagueño will find out their next rival in the second round of Second Division B promotion play-offs, at the beginning of the week.
Ruano, the reserve team coach, appeared in the mixed zone at La Rosaleda following the game: “The important thing in a tie is to get through, so just for that we’re happy. We’re now awaiting the draw, so we must carry on, there’s no time to stop, as we still haven’t achieved anything.” Ruano acknowledges the 4,000 fans at the stadium: “We’re grateful to the single animation stand, as well as all the fans who came here and supported the team. It was truly wonderful. We don’t know where we’re going to play, but if the fans help and support us, it makes everything much easier,” says the Malaguista coach.
Alberto López, the Malagueño captain, also appeared in the mixed zone: “The players are delighted to have made it through the tie here at La Rosaleda in front of our fans. We knew that they (the fans) would be another player today, and that with their support, it would be easier.”
