This morning’s game at the La Juventud ground was hard-fought as expected, against a challenging rival who always fights for promotion to Second Division B, converting their stadium into a fortress every season.
The Blue and Whites immersed themselves into the game from kick off, dominating play within the first few minutes and piling pressure on the rival with a high level of intensity. Within 15 minutes of the game, the fight for possession was concentrated in midfield, with neither side generating clear goal opportunities during the first half.
The majority of scoring chances for Atlético Mancha Real came from set pieces or as they tried to crack the back of the Blue and Whites’ defence, however the keeper maintained a solid resistance.
After half-time, Salva Ballesta introduced Ernesto Cornejo to the match, who brought speed to the ‘Malaguista’ counter-attack and had a one-on-one with the rival keeper which very nearly led to a goal. He also assisted Rufo in another chance to get on the score board, but the keeper remained vigilant.
When it looks as though neither side is able to score, then a draw is always the best result, with Atlético Malagueño claiming their first point of the season. Next Sunday, Español del Alquián are visiting Málaga for the 3rd Group 9 Third Division match.
Match stats:
At. Mancha Real: Emilio, Ramón, León, Ocaña, Vacas, Javi Cañada, Montiel (Chiri, 77’), Carrillo, Jonathan Román (Del Barco, 62’).
At. Malagueño: Cousillas, Iván Rodríguez, Alberto López, Álex Portillo, Cristian, Paul, Mula (Ernesto Gómez, 53’), Deco, Falu Aranda (Zalea, 90’), Kuki (Ernesto Cornejo, 46’) and Rufo.
Referee: Rodríguez Vázquez, Iván. Yellow cards were shown to local players: Ramón, Vacas and Oya, and from the ‘Malaguistas’: Cousillas, Iván Rodríguez, Alberto López, Álex Portillo, Cristian, Paul and Ernesto Gómez.
