UD Almería 'B' ready to spring surprise against Linares Deportivo on the road
The Academy prospects seek a turning point in Group IV as they face a relegation-threatened side under new coaching staff
UD Almería 'B' head into Sunday’s clash at the Linarejos Stadium determined to change their fortunes in Group IV of the fourth-tier Segunda RFEF. They know there is little margin for error and will look to take advantage of Linares Deportivo’s recent slide into the drop zone and their change on the bench.
The match, corresponding to Matchday 19 and kicking off at 12 noon, comes at the start of the second half of the season. Despite the difficult league position, there are still points to play for, although the red and whites are fully aware that every fixture now feels decisive.
The safety places remain 12 points away, while the relegation play-off zone is eleven points off.
UD Almería 'B' arrive in Jaén on a 6-game winless run, made up of 3 draws and 3 defeats. Several of those results were cruel, including two losses decided by penalties and the most recent setback coming in added time after holding a lead.
As a result, José María Salmerón’s side is obliged to win and cannot afford further setbacks. However, there are signs for optimism. The youthful Rojiblancos have shown improved defensive solidity in recent weeks, and if they can maintain that stability while being more clinical in attack, they believe they can exploit the uncertainty surrounding a Linares side adapting to a new head coach.
Facing opponents under pressure and playing on their home turf, UD Almería 'B' are determined to make a statement and finally spark the turnaround they desperately need.