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2-0: Almería hold their ground to clinch epic victory

Two second half goals with 10 men on the pitch see UD Almeria claim all three points and beat Malaga CF

UD Almeria held their ground to clinch an epic victory over Málaga CF. Once again, the Rojiblancos were fully aware that ‘Almería never give up’ to overcame the adversities and claim all three home points that were at stake in highly contested game. While there were no goals in the first half, the second period began with Iván Martos being sent off. Far from being self-conscious, the Indalicos gained momentum until the goals from Sadiq and Chumi filled the more than 7,000 supporters in the stands with sheer joy. 

Two changes to the side that faced SD Amorebieta last week, as both keeper Fernando and Cesar de la Hoz replacing booked Robertone started against Malaga CF. In this way, the Cantabria-born player was deployed as a defensive midfielder along with Samu Costa.

Almería started strong. Seventeen minutes were gone when Sadiq Umar welcomed a pass between the lines and was about to open the scoring. The Nigerian's cross shot hit the woodwork. Málaga also created a big chance, being the crossbar the one that prevented the visitor’s goal in a free-kick taken by Cufré.

It was even at the break. After the restart, the feeling that the Andalusian clash could get even more complicated aroused within 30 seconds when Iván Martos was awarded the second yellow and therefore, Almeria were down to 10 men. 

Last week looked hellish against SD Amorebieta, however UD Almería made an ‘action-reaction’ effect and managed to get ahead in the 50th minute. Akieme ran swiftly down the left wing to cross brilliantly and find his team-mate Sadiq Umar, whose towering header put the hosts in front (1-0). 

The Rojiblancos grew into the game as it went on. Debutant Pozo came on to trouble the Malaguistas’ defence. The idea was to score the second and after 58 minutes, Curro took a free-kick and sent the ball into the box. Samú volleyed and Chumi made sure to give the goalie a difficult time (2-0).

Hard work paid off and UD Almería doubled their lead. There was still a long time to go, yet Fernando Martínez blocked efforts up to three times to prevent Málaga from scoring.

The clock was ticking away, Samú Costa had in his boots the opportunity to extend his side’s lead, but after a great recovery, the Portuguese squandered his chance. Anyway, the victory was greatly enjoyed by the fans at Juegos Mediterraneos, who left the Stadium proud of their team as they have collected 9 points out of 12 at the start of LaLiga SmartBank.