PLAY OFFS HERE WE COME

Sport » Soccer » FC Cartagena

Steve Hibberd / 2009-04-26 19:45:19

FC Cartagena 3 UD Fuerteventura 1 ... In front of a seasons best crown of 6,500, Cartagena not only sealed a div 2a play off slot, but now need only 1 point to be crowned champions. With both Lorca and Leganes failing to win, the gap at the top has been extended to 5 points.

Manager Paco Jemez was forced to reshuffle the side that last week beat Real Madrid, due primarily to suspensions.

Tato had the games first real chance, when he shot just wide of the far post from all of 20 yards after 7 mins. A clumsy push on an opponent inside the penalty area by Leo, after 16 mins, resulted in a justified penalty. Although Suso despatched the peanut with aplomb, his unnecessary taunting of the Cartagena fans would later come back to haunt him, as he was mercilessly booed every time he touched the ball.

In the space of 2 mins midway through the half, both Viyuela and Mena had good strikes well saved by the impressive Omar. But on 28 mins, Cartagena deservedly drew level, courtesy of a well taken goal by top scorer Carmona. Less than 4 mins later, Cartagena were ahead. Out on the left wing, Tato hit a breathtaking shot which slammed against the far post before landing into the back of the net. On the stroke of half time, Tato should really have doubled his tally, but he shot wide when in a good position.

Cartagena started the 2nd half like men possessed. Tato, Viyuela and Leo, all had fine efforts well saved by keeper Omar in the first 15 mins. With 10 mins remaining, Fuerteventura were down to 10 men following Marcelinos 2nd yellow card for body checking Mena. To complete a brilliant display by Cartagena, Tato collected the ball just inside the opponents half, set of on a solo run, before slamming the ball past a helpless keeper.

Next week Cartagena are away to 8th place Merida, before finishing the season at home to rock bottom Villa Santa Brigida the following week. For more information on FC Cartagena, phone Steve on 656579423, or visit www.gotocartago.com or www.futbolclubcartagena.com.