Atlético Baleares draw 1–1 with RCD Espanyol B
Atlético Baleares ended matchday eight with a point, after Espanyol B equalised Jofre Cherta’s goal in the second half.
Start of the match:
As head coach Luis Blanco mentioned in his pre-match press conference, the starting lineup featured “some changes”. Compared to the last game against CD Alcoyano, Guillem Castell and Gerard Bonet replaced Miguelito and Alejandro Pérez.
In the 45th second of the first half, the home side made their first mistake in midfield, which earned captain Bover a yellow card.
That was the only danger created by the visitors. From that moment on, possession belonged entirely to the Balearic side. Bover and Gabriel Ramis were key in attack, with the captain’s driving runs and the right-back’s crosses constantly threatening Espanyol’s box.
However, late in the first half, Atlético Baleares’ number 21, Rubén Bover, was forced off injured. After making a pass, he went to the ground clutching his left adductor. He was replaced by Axel Bejarano.
Despite that setback, the home team’s efforts paid off in the 44th minute. Intense pressing allowed Jaume Tovar to assist Jofre Cherta, who made it 1–0.
Second half:
The second half began scrappily, with neither team able to build up much play. In the 56th minute, Cherta delivered a ball to Tovar, but a visiting defender intercepted it, preventing the striker from finishing.
Two minutes later, in the 58th, Espanyol took advantage of a counterattack to level the score. Aimar Vicando headed the ball into the back of the net.
For the remainder of the game, Atlético Baleares tried to regain the lead, but the visitors’ defence held firm and repelled every attempt.
Post-match press conference – Luis Blanco:
«Rubén Bover’s injury was the worst part of the match. It doesn’t look minor: we need to assess it carefully and hope it’s as light as possible.»
«We need maximum concentration in the few chances opponents create against us.»
«Even when we manage to create advantages, we’re not being decisive in the final third.»
«To win games, everything has to be done almost perfectly.»
«It’s going to be a long race.»
The next match is the First Round of the Copa del Rey, on Thursday, October 30 at 8 p.m., against Nàstic de Tarragona.
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