ATB draws against Villarreal B

There were big expectations going into this weekends game between Atlético Baleares and Villareal B. Both teams had won their opening two games and both had scored six goals and conceded one. Unfortunately the game failed to live up to those expectations.

Coach Javi Calm chose the same 11 that demolished Albacete 4-1 last weekend, although the bench had three changes Josep Jaume, Cordero and Pedro Orfila all had to withdraw from injury. One of the subs was 19 year old debutant Óscar Sánchez, who they’d signed from Santanyí. This just shows how important it is for Atlético Baleares to be successful, it gives a great opportunity to local talent to succeed too.

Back to the game and it became apparent that the hot weather would also have an effect on how the game would be played. It was touching 35c at one point and the players were constantly drinking water to keep themselves hydrated.

It was hot for the crowd too with some fans shirtless, others seeking shade from umbrellas and the bars doing a roaring trade on soft drinks.

Neither side had a chance that you would class as dangerous and both goalkeepers had a very comfortable afternoon. The referee Albert Català was the only one really to get a reaction from the 2,200 strong crowd and not in a positive way. He made some very strange decisions throughout the game including a deliberate block on Alfonso in the area which probably should have been a penalty.

At the end of the game coach Xavi Calm said “it was very difficult today with the heat and we weren’t able to dominate like we did last week. We had good possession with the ball but the final pass was missing. It’s a point against one of our rivals and now we need to move on to Andorra and secure three points.”

They still finish the weekend on top with Villareal but they are now joined on seven points by Gimnastic de Tarragona and RB Linense.

Next week they’re away in Andorra which should be a lot cooler as the kick-off is at 17.00. They are next at home on September 26th against Betis Deportivo.