The match was marked by a terrible heat, with the referee stopping play midway between both halves for the players to refresh and rehydrate. The main change to Ruano’s starting-11 was tactical, putting Ian Soler as a defensive pivot, in front of centrals, Luis Muñoz and Gabri.
During the first half, there was barely any attacking display from either side, with Adarve intent on making the most of set pieces close to Aarón’s goal. Meanwhile, Malagueño stayed strong at the back, without any excessive pressure from the rival. Iván, with a pass from Mula in minute 12, generated the only standout goal opportunity for the team.
In the second half, everything changed. Particularly during an electrifying start with alternatives from both teams. Minute 53 saw the best chance for the Blue and Whites, with a shot from Iván following assistance from winger, Javi Jiménez, that was deflected by local keeper, David. Wójcik, with a pair of clear counter-attacks, also had chance to score. He was also the subject of a penalty that was not declared in minute 57.
Madrid winger, Viti, with a header, grazed the post in 84’, which sent out a warning signal of what was to come. In minute 88, a Giani corner kick was converted by Álvaro (1-0). Furthermore, in stoppage time, a throw-in from Viti led to the second goal of the game, and following an extension, Olmedo netted the ball from the small area (2-0, 92’).
Atlético Malagueño will need to come back from an adverse result next week at home, to achieve the longed-for promotion to Second Division B in Spanish football.
Match stats: AD Unión Adarve 2 – Club Atlético Malagueño 0
Adarve – Víctor Cea: David ©; Viti, Juanma, Cadete, Souza (Darío 79’); Moré, Moncho (Agus 78’), Olmedo, Leo (Ángel 84’); Giani and Álvaro.
Malagueño – Manel Ruano: Aarón; Iván Rodríguez © (David Ramos 77’), Luis Muñoz, Gabri, Javi Jiménez; Harper (Santi 84’), Ian Soler, Arturo (José Carlos 68’), Mula; Kuki Zalazar and Wójcik.
Goals
1-0: Álvaro (88’); 2-0: Olmedo (92’).
Referee
Santiago Quijada Alcón (‘Comité Extremeño’). Yellow cards were shown to local players, Souza and Ángel; and Malaguistas, Arturo, Javi Jiménez and Ian Soler.
Information
Polideportivo Vicente del Bosque – artificial pitch (Madrid), in front of around 500 spectators. First leg of the final round of promotion play-offs to Second B.
