UD Almería gain momentum after Matchday 17
The Rojiblancos tighten grip on top-three spot as rivals slip up ahead of Christmas break
UD Almería emerged from Matchday 17 in an even stronger position, not only thanks to their crucial win over FC Andorra on Saturday, but also because the weekend’s results elsewhere played in their favour with just two games remaining before the Christmas break.
Several direct rivals stumbled. Deportivo La Coruña suffered a shock 1–3 home defeat to CD Castellón, Cádiz CF fell at the hands of Racing Santander, who reclaimed top spot with a 2–3 victory and UD Las Palmas were held to a frustrating goalless draw at the Gran Canaria Stadium by CD Mirandés.
As a consequence, the Rojiblancos remain 3rd on 32 points, level with Dépor but trailing only on goal difference. Racing Santander sit 3 points clear at the summit on 35, while UD Las Palmas are now two points behind the Rojiblancos on 30. CD Castellón (28) and Burgos CF (25) complete the play-off places.
Next up for UD Almería is Burgos CF, although the Indálicos head into that clash coming off a narrow 0–1 defeat to Albacete Balompié in Monday’s final fixture of the round.
The promotion race remains fiercely contested, but small gaps are beginning to open as the season approaches its midway point.