The ‘Malaguistas’ were determined for victory today following the last two defeats against Linares and Marbella. However the local side created an early goal opportunity, with a powerful shot by Garrido crashing through keeper, Sergio’s defence, to open the scoring for Loja.
Ballesta stepped up the attack in the second half, brining on Vela and Pirulo in substitution of Ernesto and Samu Castillejo. Just when an equaliser looked on the cards, Loja scored again, this time it was Juanfra who put his team further in the lead.
Despite an uphill struggle, the Blue and Whites continued in their quest for a goal, and a promising shot from Juanpi Añor sailed over the crossbar, and numerous chances for Pirulo and Rufo failed to find the target.
This defeat leaves Atlético Malagueño in sixth position and out of the promotion play-off places, drawing in points with fifth-placed Linares Deportivo.
Loja CD: Darío, Choco, Zeco, Gamiz, Sillero, Jony, Santos (Luis, 86’), Nino, Juanfra (Quevedo, 73’), Cazorla (Álex, 60’) and Garrido.
At. Malagueño: Sergio Ríos, Jurado, Víctor Ruiz (Deco, 68’), Álex Portillo, Sofian, Marrufo, Ernesto (Vela, 46’), Rafa, Rufo, Samu Castillejo (Pirulo, 46’) and Juanpi.
Goals:
1-0. Min 13. Garrido
2-0. Min 48. Juanfra
Referee: Riveiro Zafra, Jacobo. Yellow cards were awarded to local players, Jony (69’), Nino (40’), Cazorla (26’), Quevedo (88’), Luis (91’) and Álex (78’), and Malagueño’s Víctor Ruiz (27’), Álex Portillo (86’), Sofian (81’) and Juanpi (90’). Atlético Malagueño’s assistant coach, Raúl Castillo, was sent off for protesting a decision.