Batalla de submarinos. Segunda parte. By Steve.

BATTLE OF THE SUBMARINES (PART 2)

FC CARTAGENA - 2 VILLARREAL 'B' - 0

BY STEVE HIBBERD

This important div 2a encounter between 2 teams with submarine connections, resulted in Cartagena (home of the worlds oldest) gaining sweet revenge over Villarreal 'B' (yellow - the clubs nickname), by reversing the corresponding away result. Typical of this seasons Cartagena side, this latest superb performance was in complete contrast to the one which had played so poorly up in Villarreal. WILL THE REAL CARTAGENA PLEASE STAND UP. On days like last Saturday, Cartagena can beat anyone in this division (as proven in the thriller against leaders Real Betis), but unfortunately they lack the consistency needed to reach the play offs (please prove me wrong guys!!).

With top scorer Toche suffering another injury, it was left to veteran striker Victor to lead the attack. Recently, the great man surpassed the Spanish league all time appearance record of 552 games, an achievement which was acknowledged by a huge banner overhanging the clock end. Goiria came in to replace Toche, whilst Munoz took over from suspended Cala. La liga side Hercules have let it be known that they are interested in taking Cartagena manager JIM as their new number one, but hopefully club president Paco Gomez can persuade senor Martinez to stay.

It was the yellow version which made the brighter start, when after only 3 mins Cartagena keeper Casilla showed nifty outfield footwork to deny a dangerous attacking move. Minutes later, a penetrating run by Cabrera produced a fine assist for Falque, only for him to blast his shot over the home crossbar. On 11 mins, a strong shout for a spot kick fell on deaf ears, although it did appear that Moral had been bundled off the ball when attempting to reach a Botelho headed cross, as the home side at last looked threatening. Another moment of Brazilian magic was responsible for the opening goal on 27 mins, when Botelho made one of his surging runs, beating 2 men before planting an unstoppable shot into the net.

Ten minutes later he almost repeated the feat, but this time his final effort lacked accuracy as the ball made contact with the side netting. Villlarreal struck back well. Referee Iglesias surprisingly turned down valid penalty appeals, for it did appear that Cabrera had his legs taken from under him as he was about to shoot at goal. Then Casilla pulled off a smart save to deny Costa an equalising goal, before Cabrera shot wide off an open goal, just before the interval.

A stunning volleyed drive by Jose Carlos produced an equally brilliant save from keeper Marino on 52 mins, as Cartagena looked to extend their lead. At the other end, Casilla saved well from Marcos, then from the resultant corner Castellani headed against the post. Midway through the half, new signing Mustapha Riga (ex Levante, Bolton etc) made his debut. The sight of him running on to the pitch sporting flowing long dreadlocks, brought back memories of fellow Dutchman Edgar Davids (if he can perform half as well as the masked footballing genius, then we are in for a treat!!). Frenchman Cygan got into the act when he coolly headed a goal bound strike from Costa off the line, as Villarreal stepped up the pressure. It took a seasons first goal for centre back Pablo Ruiz on 78 mins to make the game safe.

An inch perfect free kick into the oppositions penalty area was met by Pablo, whose brave diving header simply rocketed into the back of the net, signalling joyous scenes of celebrations from both players and fans alike. New boy Riga had the final say. His solo effort mesmerised defenders, but unfortunately the shot on goal was well saved, denying a fairy story ending to what had been a thoroughly entertaining match. This victory lifts Los Albinegros into the final play off slot on 48 points.

Attendance: 9,200

FC Cartagena line-up

Casilla, Cygan, Txiki, Mariano, Bothelo, Moral, Munoz, Goiria (Riga), Victor (Julien), Pablo, Jose (Clavero)

Forthcoming Fixture

Next week, Cartagena are pencilled in to play at De Los Carmenes Stadium, against Granada on Sat 2 Apr, ko 4pm (to be shown live on Marca tv). There is a possibility that strike action may postpone this fixture, but hopefully it will go ahead. Check out www.nosoloefese.es for further details.