Lucas finiquita a un Linares líder. By Steve.

LUCAS LADS LIQUIDATE LEADERS LINARES
CD LINARES - 1 FC CARTAGENA - 3
BY STEVE HIBBERD

Cartagena boss Pichi Lucas was a proud man last Sunday, as his troops achieved a magnificent double over div 2b leaders Linares.
This victory throws the battle for play off places wide open, as Cartagena close the gap for qualification to only 3 points. Although still in 6th place, they have taken an impressive 16 points from a possible 18, and with only 7 matches remaining, they are definately the divisions in form team.
Good news reached the club via the Spanish FA, who informed them that midfield dynamo Mariano Sanchez had been successful in his appeal against his harsh sending off the previous week, allowing him to play. Injuries to Cabrejo and Lusarreta, plus a suspension for Toledo, saw Alcantara, Charcos and Molist recalled to the side.
FC CARTAGENA LINE UP
CABALLERO, ORMAZABAL, ALCANTARA, CHARCOS, ORLANDO, MARIANO, CURRO, SIVORI, MOLIST (KOEMAN), LAFUENTE (BENITEZ), CARMONA (ROCHA)
Although there was plenty of good football on display, the first half was fought mainly in midfield. So, when referee Mendez terminated proceedings, the 0-0 scoreline was a fair reflexion of 45 minutes action.
It took the home side only 3 minutes after the restart to take the lead. Prolific scorer Oscar Martinez, was once again a thorn in Cartagenas side, as he single handedly outstripped the defence, and coolly slotted the ball home. On 52 minutes, the scores were level, courtesy of a Mariano Sanchez special. The introduction of front men Benitez and Koeman paid off dividends, when they linked up well to set up Carmona, who rifled in a cracking shot which bulged the net on 80 mins. Rocha had only been on the park for 5 minutes, before he put the game beyond doubt, with an unstoppable drive from 35 yards, as play entered the final minute of normal time.
Attendance - 2,500

FORTHCOMING FIXTURE
Cartagena are on a roll, but they must continue their winning streak if they are to secure a play off slot. On Sunday 30 March, ko 12pm noon, 12th place Puertollano visit Cartagonova Stadium for a home div 2b fixture. Having already won at Puertollan earlier in the season, Los Albinegros will be aiming to pull off another double. Why not come along and joing the ever increasing band of ex-pat supporters cheering on their local club. Phone Steve on 656579423 for further details.

SUNDAY 30 MARCH KO 12PM
DIVISION 2B
FC CARTAGENA
V
PUERTOLLANO
CARTAGONOVA STADIUM