The university team lost to Xerez CD, led by former university player Checa, and lost ground in the standings.
UCAM Murcia fell to Xerez CD in their first match of the year (0-1). The varsity team returned to competition after the holidays and struggled to find their rhythm. The Javi Motos men showed a lack of aggression and wasted their rare opportunities. As the match looked headed for a scoreless draw, La Unión’s Santisteban received a low cross from the right and scored the goal that gave the visitors victory. UCAM Murcia remains at the top of the table, but Torremolinos has reduced the gap to just 3 points behind the university team.
The return of the leaders. The university team, having finished the previous year in first place and crowned winter champions, returned to the field to face Xerez CD. Javi Motos players were looking for revenge after their defeat at Jerez in their first match of the season.
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Once again, Javi Motos’ offensive strategy was evident, although there was too much reliance on the left flank. Alexis García was very active on this side, combining with Luque and overlapping with Sevila. Urcelay was less involved in the attack than in previous matches, focusing more on his defensive duties and ball distribution.
The clearest chance of the first half came from this left flank. Alexis carried the ball sideways and passed to Luque. The university striker dribbled past a few defenders and fired a shot from outside the box which the goalkeeper managed to block. The rebound fell perfectly for Amin, who charged in with the goal wide open, but unfortunately his shot crumpled the crossbar. UCAM Murcia wasted a golden opportunity.
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Prieto becomes the hero. The university goalkeeper put on his cape to make a spectacular save on a header from a Xerez player, who was heading straight towards the top corner. He deflected it for a corner and quickly prevented another header soon after.
The second half got underway with both teams finding a balanced playing field. The halftime break allowed the coaches to address the issues that had been bothering them on the field. In addition to correcting mistakes, they motivated their players, emphasizing the importance of not relaxing from their privileged position.
The visitors took the field with much more focus than their college counterparts. This was reflected in the number of chances created by the Andalusians. Prieto was once again lively, saving a few good chances. Without a doubt, the varsity guard was keeping his team in the game.
The law of the ex resurfaces. As the match neared its end, an attack from the visitors culminated in a low cross from the right, perfectly placed for Santisteban, who wore the blue and gold jersey last season, to score easily. UCAM Murcia let slip a match where it lacked aggression.
Despite the defeat, UCAM Murcia maintains its leading position, with Torremolinos just 3 points behind. The men of Javi Motos cannot afford any further missteps if they want to maintain their status as leaders.
