There were a number of highlights from #AlbaceteMálaga, that we review here in our particular kilometre:
Another Ontiveros show
The Marbella-born winger was unleashed. From the far left he scored a stunning trademark goal to put the visitors in front in minute 16 of play. Immediately afterwards, he almost nailed a free kick that grazed the post. The homegrown player has scored four goals this season, all between matchdays 35 and 41. His wild talent wins matches.
Fifth away goal for N’Diaye
Another important goal away from La Rosaleda for Alfred N’Diaye. His fifth goal this campaign, all away from home. In Lugo, Coruña, Córdoba, Cádiz and Albacete the French-Senegalese player scored. His goals were crucial in obtaining two wins and three draws in the aforementioned games. His arrivals from the second line, full of physical vigour, lead to points.
The hand of Munir
The Melilla-born goalkeeper is having a remarkable season. He has remained amongst the keepers who have conceded the fewest goals in the competition, his feline agility and extraordinary reflexes in goal resulted in numerous spectacular saves of immense value. In minute 66 of play, with 1-2 on the scoreboard, Munir made a brutal save, preventing a Zozulia goal and Albacete going level, with home fans already celebrating in the stands. Colossal.
Third place and play-off
The team killed two birds with one stone. They defeated a major rival in the fight for third place, Albacete. They are now tied on points (71) with the Manchegos but have an advantage on goal average. Defeating Elche at La Rosaleda, Víctor Sánchez del Amo’s men would end the regular league in third place, ahead of the promotion play-offs to LaLiga Santander, having already secured a place in the absence of knowing the final position and rival for the first tie.
Hard-fought match with 10 men, overcoming adversity
The match, under control with a 0-2 lead in the second half, became more difficult with Blanco Leschuk’s red card in 54’. Three minutes later, Zozulia scored and came close to an equaliser in 66’. Counting an endless amount of stoppage time of eight minutes, the Blue and Whites spent 44 minutes with a numerical disadvantage, in which the competitiveness and bravery of the team safeguarded a magnificent result in an almost impregnable stadium this season. In addition, the two wingers, Cifuentes and Ricca suffered with physical problems in the second half and were substituted by Iván Rodríguez and Diego González. Great teamwork.
