The Blue and Whites came up against the Harlequins on matchday 28 of LaLiga SmartBank. The match, this Sunday 7th March, coincided with International Women’s Day celebrations, with the VIP box occupied by female representatives from various political and sporting institutions. This important date was also marked last year at La Rosaleda, but with a radically different setting. That 8th March 2020 was the final match in front of the fans to date due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
In terms of gameplay, both sides attempted to dominate possession and the wide area was the busiest on the pitch. Pellicer’s men took the initiative and commanded the attack with notable actions, but without great success.
Caye came close in 37’. The striker headed a great set piece from the left, but the ball sailed a few centimetres over the crossbar. Escassi also tried his luck with a direct free kick. The shot from the number ‘23’ in front of the area was blocked by the rival keeper (40’), At half-time, the scoreboard remained at 0-0.
The second half kicked off with a similar tone to the first. Both sides tried to control the ball and the defence was expeditious in the initial stages. The electric Joaquín Muñoz, who had already sent shockwaves through the visitors with previous attempts, launched a powerful cross to the far post in 62’. There, Luis Muñoz converted with head and heart to put the home side 1-0 up. The captain overcame the defence to score with courage and faith. The captain celebrated his goal with a dedication to his teammate Pablo Chavarría, who tore his cruciate ligament in the previous match against CD Mirandés.
Following the goal, Pellicer’s men went all out on the attack in search of a second. Joaquín Muñoz and Luis were extremely close to doing so in 65’ and 80’ respectively. On both occasions, the ball went wide, grazing the post.
When it looked as though it was all over, the referee awarded a penalty in favour of the locals for a foul on Luis Muñoz. The number ‘8’ took the ball with authority and converted from the 11-metre mark to score a brace 2-0 (+90’). After the celebration, the referee blew the final whistle.
