1-2: Cruel stoppage-time collapse leaves UD Almería 'B' empty-handed
A first-minute strike from Hou was not enough as Xerez CD turned the match on its head with two goals in added time at the Anexo pitch
Football once again showed its harshest side to UD Almería ‘B’, who suffered a devastating 1-2 defeat against promotion-chasing Xerez CD despite producing one of their most complete performances of the season. The Academy side took an early lead, defended with discipline and even had chances to kill the game, only to see everything unravel in stoppage time.
The match could not have started better for the young Rojiblancos. Straight from kick-off, Hou found the net in the opening minute to give UD Almería ‘B’ a dream start on Matchday 18 of Segunda RFEF Group IV, marking the beginning of the second half of the season at the Anexo.
Xerez CD gradually took control of possession, but UD Almería ‘B’ stood firm. The hosts’ defensive organisation restricted the visitors to very few clear chances, while the Indálicos looked dangerous on the break. After the interval, the home side came agonisingly close to doubling their advantage: Iker Burgos fired narrowly wide on the hour mark and Marciano struck the post soon after.
As the minutes ticked away, UD Almería ‘B’ appeared to have the contest under control. A long-awaited first home win of the season seemed within reach, despite occasional scares from the guests. However, the cruel nature of football struck once more.
In added time, disaster unfolded. Xerez CD equalised in the 90 +2' through Jaime López and before the home side could recover, Nané struck just a minute later to complete a dramatic turnaround and snatch all 3 points.
The final whistle brought disbelief and despair for UD Almería ‘B’, who once again were left wondering how victory slipped through their fingers. Luck continues to evade a team battling to avoid relegation, though time and points remain to fight on.
Match information:
UD Almería 'B': Jesús López; Vicente Agulló, Miguel Operé, Josema (Luis Martins,75'), Martim Alberto; Joan Gázquez, Romera (Edu Pla, 59'), Marsu (Marciano, 67'); Hou (Hugo Martín, d. 68), Iker Burgos and Taufek (Asirón, 68').
Xerez CD: De la Calzada; Javi Rodríguez (Franco, 46'), Moisés, Josete, Chacartegui (Hugo Díaz, 78'); Ismael, Adrián Rodríguez (Sissokho, 79'), Zelu (Nané, 66'), Ricky, Charaf; Mati Castillo (Javi López, d. 78).
Goals: 1-0 (1') Hou. 1-1 (90+2') Jaime López. 1-2 (90+3') Nané.
Referee: Gutiérrez Perera, from Seville. Yellow cards: Romera (UD Almería 'B'), Chacartegui, Charaft, Josete and Nané (Xerez CD).