Se terminó el sueño. By Steve.

THE FAT LADY HAS SUNG

UD SALAMANCA - 2 FC CARTAGENA - 0

BY STEVE HIBBERD

With nothing at stake for Cartagena, but everything for Salamanca to play for, it didn't take a rocket scientist to work out that JIM and his boys would make the long journey from Castilla and Leon empty handed. Manager JIM has plenty of rebuilding to do in the close season, especially in the striker department, as once again big money signing Gloria (Goiria) failed to find the net, in what was his 31st game of the season. Salamanca meanwhile are fighting for their div 2a lives, for with only 1 relegation slot yet to be filled, they are very much in contention along with Nastic Tarragona and Villarreal 'B'. Lining up in defence for the hosts, was ex Cartagena favorite Hector Yuste, whose roots are very much in the Murcian community. Twas the home side who took the initiative early on, and only a smart save by keeper Rebollo (playing only his 5th game of the season), denied Juanjo opening his account. Kike had 2 great opportunities to put Salamanca ahead, but shot wide both times. Apart from Botelho, who was causing the home defence all kinds of problems, the visiting strike force was impotent, not troubling keeper Rivas in the slightest. 

Just before the half time interval the inevitable happened, when from an inch perfect centre by Edu, Juanjo had the simple task of scoring. Back in early January, Cartagena secured a narrow 1-0 victory over the men from lizard land, but inside Helmantico Stadium, try as they may, a repeat never seem likely. Early 2nd half exchanges favoured the visitiors, with Rivas saving well from Victor, before a strong appeal for a penalty for a trip on Botelho, resulted in nothing more than a booking for the Arsenal loanee for his simulated dive. On 69 mins, Salamanca made the game safe, when Brazilian Edu again provided the all important assist, this time Marcos slammed the ball home.

FC Cartagena line-up

Rebollo, Exposito, Pablo, Cygan, Clavero (Txiki), Julien, Moral (Riga), Toche (Goiria), Victor, Mariano, Botelho

Forthcoming Fixture

Next up for Cartagena, is their final home div 2a match of the season, against already promoted Madrid based Rayo Vallecano. This match will be played at Cartagonova Stadim on Sun 29 May at 7pm. Check out www.nosoloefese.es for further information.