Buen punto en un partido embotado. By Steve.

DULL MATCH PRODUCES USEFUL POINT
ALBACETE BALOMPIE - 0 FC CARTAGENA - 0
BY STEVE HIBBERD

Although Cartagena failed to win, this uninspiring match did preserve their place in the play off slots. With nearest contenders Numancia losing at home to Cadiz, Los Albinegros stay in 3rd position in an incredibly evenly matched div 2a.
Over 1,500 Cartagena faithful huddled together inside the impressive Carlos Belmonte Stadium. For a country that is not renowned for its enthusiastic away support, Cartagena fans have been magnificent this season, as their team continues to punch way above their weight.
Without doubt, Cartagena keeper Ruben was the man of the match, producing one of many vital saves on 16 mins, when he acrobatically stopped a goal bound effort from Stuani. Toche produced his sides only worthwhile shot in the 1st half, requiring a brilliant save by Albacete's keeper to deny him a goal. Just before the interval, the home side were unlucky not to lead through a blistering shot which whistled just past the post.
On 50 mins, a fierce 20 yard free kick by Cartagenas De Lucas was superbly saved, denying the ex Chelsea man a deserved goal. Midway through the half, Cartagena were saved by the woodwork, when a looping header smashed against the bar. Ruben once again came to the rescue on 84 mins, bravely blocking a point blank drive. The resultant corner was headed fractionally over the bar. Although his namesake produces controversially brilliant films, senor Tarantino the footballer, suddenly became 'mr red' on 87 mins, when a vicious foul on Cartagena sub Quintero earned him a 2nd yellow card.

FC Cartagena line-up
Ruben, Exposito, Herrero, Txiki, Clavero, Lafuente, Mariano, Falcon, De Lucas, Victor, Toche

Having reached the half way stage of the season, it's time to reverse the matches played in the 1st half. Way back in August, Cartagena got their season off to a great start with a win at Catalonia club Girona. On Saturday 30 January, ko 6pm, Cartagena host Girona at Cartagonova Stadium, in what is a must win match if their promotion drive is to keep on track. For up to date information of FC Cartagena, please check out www.gotocartago.com or www.futbolclubcartagena.com.