The Blue and Whites and UD Almería met at the Montecastillo facilities in full summer preparation mode. The high temperatures led the kick-off time to be postponed for over half an hour, it was originally scheduled for 19:30 but got underway at 19:37.
On the pitch, Pablo Guede opted for the following staring line-up: Yáñez, Juanfran, Bustinza, Ramalho, Burgos, Javi Jiménez, Jozabed, Luis Muñoz, Febas, Fran Sol and Rubén Castro.
In regard to the game, the Blue and Whites went out there with the clear conviction of dominating possession and were very forceful in the movement of the ball.
MCF generated numerous options to take the lead in the first half. The most promising featured Jozabed. Rubén Castro sought to surprise from the corner of the area with a powerful shot to the near post. The goalkeeper cleared the shot, and the rebound moved a distance away from the area. The ball was then received by Jozabed whose beautiful shot collided with the crossbar, bounced on the line and went out, initially leaving a doubt as to whether it was a goal or not. However, the referee determined that the ball didn’t enter the goal (0-0, 21').
At minute 32, Almería took the lead with a goal from Rojas (0-1). Possession was divided between both sides as play went on.
Fran Sol came close to an equaliser in 36’. His header from an accurate Febas pass grazed the post. After 45 minutes the score remained 0-1.
When play resumed, the Blue and Whites brazenly went on the attack. They constantly threatened the rival goal and, finally, got their reward. Esteban Burgos majestically finished off a great cross by Javi Jiménez from the left. The centre-back headed in a powerful ball at the far post (1-1, 51').
As the match advanced, several substitutions were made. First two, then another two, then six. All players on the pitch were replaced. The match ended with the following line-up: Yáñez, Fomba, Moussa, Escassi, Caro, Víctor Olmo, Genaro, Álex Rico, Dani Lorenzo, Haitam and Loren.
There were several more dangerous approaches by the Blue and Whites for the remainder of play. A friendly match where the result is of little importance, but the sensations were very good.
