As always there was a gala atmosphere at Martiricos, with the run-up marked by a sea of scarves from the fans, the ‘Bombonera’ anthem sung a cappella from the stands, and a minute of applause in memory of Chiquito de la Calzada, including an “Al ataqueeerrr!!” banner, throughout the ‘Grada de Animación de Fondo Sur’. Míchel made two changes to the starting line-up in respect of the last game, bringing on Rolón and Rolan in place of suspended Recio, and also Juanpi.
Chory Castro, in 7’ and 10’ generated the first approaches for Málaga, who had more possession at the beginning than Deportivo. Fifteen minutes in, Chory launched a corner from the left, and Rosales, who appeared by surprise, propelled a right-footed cross to open the scoring (1-0, 15’). Peñaranda in minute 19 tried his luck with a long shot, that was saved by former Malaguista keeper, Rubén.
The visitors reacted quickly, securing an equaliser thanks to a Lucas Pérez header midway through the first half (1-1, 23’). Deportivo dominated the wide area, whilst Málaga didn’t appear with a dangerous attack until 37’, with a promising chance for Peñaranda on the left. Rolón and Baysse, before half-time, both attempted to put the locals back in front before the referee blew the whistle.
The second half kicked-off with a dry shot from Chory on the left, following a Rolan heel pass, that led to a solvent save from Rubén in 47’. A little later, a rapid counter-attack from Lucas Pérez was driven with quality and launched at Roberto, who after a clearance, left a ‘dead’ ball for Schär to find the net at will (1-2, 52’). Immediately afterwards there was a double MCF substitution, introducing Juanpi and Ontiveros in place of Rolón and Keko.
This Málaga wasn’t about to give up, proof of which led to an equaliser from ‘Chory’ Castro. The Uruguayan, in an act of faith, converted a shot from Ontiveros, anticipating the rival defence on the goal line (2-2, 63’). Bastón came on in place of Peñaranda, and the fans got behind their team like never before. The Blue and Whites’ number ‘9’, in minute 72, had a promising chance with a shot from the edge of the area.
In the final stage of the game, despite the physical fatigue, the players kept fighting and were rewarded with a third goal. Borja Bastón, with superb definition, thrashed Rubén and brought La Rosaleda to its feet (3-2, 84’). The fans chanted the hymn and elevated the entire stadium. Another victory repeated almost exactly like last season against Deportivo. The second win of the season for Míchel González’s men, both at the Martiricos fortress.
