Real Valladolid and Villarreal showed why they are battling relegation with a poor and cagey display in the opening fixture of Week 23 in La Liga Santander.
Neither side could find a goal and consequently both teams continue in an alarming run of form: Valladolid have won just one of their last eight games, Villarreal are without a victory in 10.
Sergio Gonzalez was without Fernando Calero at centre back due to suspension. The performance of 22 year old Joaquin Fernandez in defence, making just his second appearance at this level, was one source of optimism.
With Michel back from suspension Borja Fernandez dropped to the bench, and Sergio selected Javi Moyano and Pablo Hervias ahead of Antonito and Toni Villa. The system was 4-4-2.
Javi Calleja was content with his side's performance in the draw with Espanyol a week ago and he stuck with the same XI and same 3-4-3 system.
In the first half they almost conceded: Hervias tested Sergio Asenjo early on and Nacho had a shot cleared off the line by Daniele Bonera. Later, Sergi Guardiola failed hit the target with a close range header.
At the other end Karl Toko Ekambi was quite isolated initially, but then did link up with Alfonso Pedraza before testing Jordi Masip. Villarreal's best move came after 41 minutes when Gerard Moreno and Pablo Fornals created a chance for Peraza but Masip made a top quality save.
After half time the game deteriorated. For the hosts Hervias shot over, Joaquin Fernanxdez headed wide and substitute Daniele Verde almost embarrassed Asenjo from distance.
Villarreal got weaker and weaker as the game wore on. Young Samuel Chukwueve - on as a substitute - volleyed wide late on, but in truth neither side did enough to earn the win.
This was a poor encounter between two sides in grave danger of relegation.
The positives for Valladolid were: a first clean sheet in ten matches, an encouraging display from Joaquin and a bright performance from Hervias. Unfortunately Oscar Plano was booked and will be suspended for their game at Barcelona next week.
For Villarreal the improved defensive solidity is a plus, but aside from that they looked alarmingly short of attacking spark. Next they face Sporting Clube de Portugal in the UEFA Europa League, followed by Sevilla then Atletico Madrid in the league.
Comments
Post a Comment