Academy
1-2: UD Almería 'B' defeat drops them out of play-offs zone
With 3 matches remaining, UD Almería 'B' reduce their chances of fighting for promotion. The Rojiblancos took the lead, but Estepona responded by overturning the result
UD Almería 'B', who in their Segunda RFEF debut have almost always been placed in the promotion play-off spots, have fallen out of the play-off zone with just 3 matches remaining in the regular season.
The defeat against direct rivals CD Estepona triggered this, although it should not be forgotten that a fortnight ago the UDA Academy prospects also lost at the Anexo against mid-table opponents.
The second half of the season has registered triumphs and losses. There are still possibilities, without forgetting that the team's main objective has been brilliantly achieved, which is to stay in the league and support the first team with players. The match was electric, hard-fought and very exciting. And it was no wonder, given the teams facing each other and the high stakes.
Although CD Estepona gave a warning right from the off, thanks to a brilliant save from home keeper Jesús López, it was UD Almería 'B' who had the most influence and whipped in the clearest chances to take the lead at half-time, including a shot that hit the woodwork.
5 minutes after the restart, Lorenzo managed to put the Indálicos in front (1-0), putting the match back on track because Alberto Lasarte's boys also play sensibly on the pitch. However, things changed in just a few minutes. In the 60th minute, Málaga equalised and that goal took its toll on the 'B' team, which seemed to lose confidence.
As a result, the score was 2-1 in the 76th minute. Although the Rojiblancos tried, it was impossible to avoid defeat. On the next Matchday, UD Almería 'B' visit second-ranked Juventud de Torremolinos, who are fighting for the top place and automatic promotion, although this matchday has also been difficult for them.
Match information:
UD Almería 'B': Jesús López; Peñalver, Paco Sanz (Edu Plá, 70'), René Pérez, Nacho Vila; Valen (Canton, 79'), Joan Gázquez, Martin Svidersky (Josema, 62'), Luis Lara (Hugo Neves, 70'); Yago Paredes and Lorenzo (Houssam, 79').
CD Estepona: Alfonso; Caro, Candelas, Antonio Marín (Keita, 79'), Titi; Jorge García, Juanan Barroso; Eric Gómez (Mirapeix, 79'), Nacho Goma (Marchena, 79'), Hugo Rodríguez (Ekhi, 23'), and César (Mati Castillo, 70').
Goals: 1-0 (50'): Lorenzo. 1-1 (60'): Caro. 1-2 (76'): Jorge García.
Referee: Ibáñez Juárez, from the Murcia referees association. He booked Martin Svidersky, Paco Sanz, Nacho Vila, Peñalver, and head coach Alberto Lasarte for the home side after the match was over. He sent off visitor Titi for a second yellow card in the 83'. Eric Gómez, Candelas, and the CD Estepona assistant coach were also booked.