Almería journalists’ pens run dry against Rubi’s XI

The traditional friendly match between the UD Almería coaching staff and the Almería city sports journalists once again delivered goals, humour and healthy rivalry, with the team captained by Rubi running out emphatic 8–2 winners at the Anexo UD Almería pitch.

Despite the lopsided scoreline, the journalists’ side showed plenty of courage and commitment, even taking the lead on two occasions in a fiercely contested first half. Boosted by high-profile reinforcements such as former top-flight winger Aleix Vidal and striker ‘Antoñito’, the visitors caused early problems, Vidal stretching the play down the flank while Antoñito dropped deep to knit moves together.

On both occasions, goalkeeper Ricardo Molina was left with no answer, but Rubi’s outfit responded with authority, drawing level before the break. The 2–2 equaliser on the stroke of half-time proved a decisive psychological moment, shifting momentum firmly in favour of the coaching staff.

The second half told a very different story. Despite losing Joao to injury at the restart, the home side took full control, orchestrated by the elegant Salva Sevilla and powered by the clinical finishing of Joan Ferrer and Carlos Felipe, who in a show of professional courtesy, refrained from celebrating goals against his fellow journalists.

Almería Sports Press Association president Salva Moya embodied the spirit of the occasion, embracing a player-coach role in the style of Gianluca Vialli, leading with passion if not always with tactical restraint.

As the minutes went by, the physical demands of the friendly began to weigh heavily on the journalists, whose energy levels dipped but whose competitive spirit never waned. While Rubi’s team claimed victory, the journalists took pride in a moral triumph built on effort and camaraderie.

Referee Joan Carrillo delivered a composed and authoritative performance, successfully managing a high-tempo match played in its purest form, without VAR, due.