Se esfuma el record de imbatibilidad. By Steve.

UNBEATEN RECORD UP IN SMOKE
FC CARTAGENA - 0 GIMNASTIC TARRAGONA - 2
BY STEVE HIBBERD

After a magnificent 11 match unbeaten run, FC Cartagena finally met their nemesis in the form of mid table Catalan based side Gimnastic Tarragona. Without wishing to make excuses for this defeat, the fact that 5 key players were missing, obviously didn't help their cause. Without Mariano, De Lucas (suspended), Lafuente, Pablo Ruiz, Txiki (injured), the heart was ripped out of the side. Having said that, Gimnastic thoroughly deserved their victory, for the exciting attacking play they produced. Even with this defeat, Los Albinegros stay top, now only a point clear of nearest rivals Hercules and Real Sociadad. Unfortunately, on a day when he was needed most, keeper Ruben had possibly his worst game of the season. On 12 mins, from the edge of his box, he horribly sliced his kick to an opponent, who thankfully missed the target. Shortly afterwards, Nastic did get the ball in the back of the net, but it was rightly disallowed for a foul on Ruben. They didn't have to wait long for the opener, for on 21 mins, a magnificent curling 30 yard free kick by Campano beat the wall, and Ruben, before nesting into the back of the net. Worse was to follow on 40 mins, when a teasing cross from the left eluded everyone, including a wretched attempt by Ruben, before eventually falling to the feet of Jose Mari at the far post, who finished in style.

Different half, same story. Within the opening minutes, Nastic would have increased their lead, had it not been for a desperate goal line clearance by Cygan. Midway through, Ruben at last came good, pulling off 2 top drawer saves in quick succession, as Nastic continued in their quest for goals. Nastics impressive Campano was unlucky with a powerful drive which rattled the bar, before bouncing to safety. It was 76 mins before Cartagena eventually tested an almost redundant Nastic keeper, when sub Quintero forced him into making a good save. With time running out, another sub, Tonino watched in disbelief, as his long range ground shot brushed the outside of the far post, with the keeper well beaten. Attendance: 11,652
FC Cartagena lineup
Ruben, Clavero (Tonino), Cygan, Herrero, Exposito, Oscar (Quintero), Longas (Falcon), Victor, Hector, Tato

Forthcoming Fixture
A visit to Real Sociadad on Sun 22 Nov, ko 1200 hrs, is a real top of the table clash, which undoubtably will be shown live by at least one Spanish tv channel. Visit www.gotocartago.com or www.futbolclubcartagena.com for up to date info on FC Cartagena.