0-1: Early penalty costs UD Almería 'B' third back-to-back defeat
Despite dominating play, the UD Almería Academy youth side was unable to overcome guests Águilas FC's early lead
UD Almería 'B' suffered their third back-to-back defeat as they fell 0-1 to Águilas FC, a result that sees them slip further into the relegation zone. Despite dominating possession and creating more chances, the hosts were undone by a highly contentious penalty awarded to Águilas FC in the opening minute, which ultimately sealed their fate.
The match could not have started worse for UD Almería 'B'. In the opening seconds, Águilas FC were awarded a penalty for a disputed foul and Chris Martínez converted from the spot to give the visitors a 0-1 lead before the game had even properly begun.
Despite the early setback, the youthful Rojiblancos responded well, dictating much of the play and creating several good opportunities. In the 6th minute, a shot from the edge of the box rattled the woodwork and throughout the first half, UD Almería 'B' continued to press but failed to find the finishing touch.
As the game wore on, Águilas FC grew comfortable in their defensive shape, able to absorb the pressure from the Indálicos while keeping their advantage intact. The guests looked to manage the game, frustrating UD Almería 'B' with every passing minute.
Despite making multiple substitutions in the second period, including the introduction of fresh legs like Iker Burgos and Joan Gázquez, UD Almería 'B' could not break the deadlock, even seeing another shot hit the post in stoppage time.
The match was also marred by disciplinary issues. In the 74th minute, Águilas FC's head coach Adrián Hernández, was sent off for an altercation with the referee and the hosts’ bench received multiple yellow cards, further adding to the frustration of the home side.
The loss leaves UD Almería 'B' struggling in the Group IV relegation zone, having failed to secure a single win at home this season. On the next matchday, they will take on Xerez CD away from home, where they will be without Marciano, who will be on international duty with the Guinea-Bissau national team.
Match details:
UD Almería 'B': Jesús López; Luis Martins, Miguel Operé, Pedro Fidel, Martim Alberto (Asirón, 78'); Romera, Josema (Joan Gázquez, 68'); Nico Fernández (Iker Burgos, 68'), Taufek (Tomazinho, 62'), Marciano and Hou (Torres, 78').
Águilas FC: Salcedo; Johan Terranova, Ebuka, Aitor (José Más, 46'), Mario Abenza, Chris Martínez (Seth Vega, 63'), Pipo (Fer Martínez, 63'), Uri, Keita, Ángel López (Espinosa, 73') and Kevin Manzano.
Goal: 0-1 (1') Chris Martínez (penalty).
Referee: López Rodríguez (Valencia Referees Association). Sent off Águilas FC head coach Adrián Hernández (74'). Yellow cards: hosts Martim Alberto, Miguel Operé, Asirón, Tomazinho, head coach Alberto Lasarte; guests Aitor, Ángel López, Chris Martínez, Mario Abenza, José Más.
Additional Information: Matchday 5, Group IV. Fourth-tier Segunda RFEF. Game played at the Anexo pitch in Almería.