Espanyol climb into mid-table after clinching an incredible 1-0 victory at La Ceramica, with Leandro Cabrera’s strike handing the ‘Pericos’ a massive boost in their new era.
Following a string of gloomy days – including a Copa del Rey exit and the departure of Manolo Gonzalez – the sun is finally beginning to shine over Cornella. Espanyol, arriving at La Ceramica under fresh leadership, clinched a monumental victory against a Villarreal side that continues to falter.
Inigo Perez’s men displayed blatant inconsistency and looked utterly bereft of ideas to trouble one of the league’s relegation-threatened outfits. Completely lacking spark and solutions, the hosts failed to overturn the deficit orchestrated by Leandro Cabrera. Pushing forward into the attack, the centre-back smashed home Bryan Zaragoza’s cross to reap the ultimate reward following a relentless physical and mental shift under Sergio Garcia.
Villarreal:
The ‘Yellow Submarine’ had racked up seven consecutive wins over the ‘Pericos’, but that commanding streak ground to an abrupt halt today. The hosts are still failing to click after 11 rounds and find themselves slipping far behind in the race for Europe. Mikautadze and Moleiro epitomised the team’s plight, squandering a botched two-on-one counter-attack. Panic is steadily beginning to set in amongst the ‘Groguets’.
Espanyol:
The Catalan outfit discovered the perfect tonic at La Ceramica. Manolo Gonzalez is firmly in the past; the present and future belong to Eder Sarabia, not forgetting a triumphant first-team bow for Sergio Garcia. The coach quickly doused the flames and delivered an invaluable psychological lift to his squad. He also issued a clear statement of intent by placing his trust in academy products like Alejandro Santiago and Jan Peries. Fortuno stood tall between the posts, matching an exceptional display from the entire defence, midfield, and forward line.