UD Almeria ‘B’ cannot reap rewards of scintillating season
The UDA Academy youngsters were only one goal away from moving up to Segunda Division RFEF after invigorated play-off displays
Tears of sadness rolled down their cheeks… UD Almeria ‘B’ came oh so close to getting a second goal to close out the 2021/22 season with promotion to the Segunda Division RFEF, the fourth-tier of Spanish football. A stoppage-time goal from Rojas gave hope, but it was not enough so the disadvantage of the qualifying factor leaves the UDA Academy prospects for one more year competing in Tercera Division RFEF (Group IX).
Óscar Fernández's youth team, who have already put an end to training this campaign, faced the play-offs with electric energy and took giant steps until reaching the third round; UD Almeria ‘B’ beat Marbella FC 1-2 in extra-time and edged past Huétor Tájar 1-2 without having the possibility of a draw in their favour. As a result, the lads sealed passage to the last round against Utebo FC at the Ciudad del Fútbol de Las Rozas with the Zaragoza-based squad going ahead, the Andalusians pegging back their opponents by an injury-time equaliser that left them without a great prize as they needed only one more goal to move up a rank.
It was for this reason that the UDA Academy products had to be consoled by family and close friends at the end of the thrilling final. The players had performed a scintillating season that will undeniably serve as a learning stage for such young professionals, who only lacked to put the finishing touch for which they will fight again next season.