Lanzarote Football

The 400 or so fans that turned up in the scorching heat would have been better sticking to the beach rather than the 15 minute journey into Arrecife. True, the Rojillos were without some of their automatic first team choices notably in midfield, Ex Real Madrid player Jotha out for a one game suspension and Captain Rubén Rodríguez out with a leg injury. The ball simply flew over the midfield and then straight back. It wasn’t pretty.

The opening stages were even with the Gran Canarian side first threatening after seven minutes. A free kick on the edge of the area was struck by striker Alex who saw his effort scrape the left hand post of the Lanzarote keeper, Ruymán. The game then began to become a strain on the eyes with both sides seemingly being unable to string a set of passes together.

The best opportunity of the first half fell to the home side with an unexpected set of passes starting with Toñito with a short touch to Rosmen who then found Javr Betancort and with his neat back heel gave Javier Morales the chance for a clear strike at the target. Unfortunately the midfielder blasted into the side netting. The away side that are 14 places below the Rojillos in the league table began to grow in confidence. Nearing the end of the first half they had sensed Lanzarote were on an off day but as their position suggests they were unable to muster up any sort of opening.

If the fans believed the second half was going to be any better they were sorely mistaken. No real rhythm developed as the away side defended with ease and on the hour mark the visitors had a great chance to go in front. Following a quick break, striker La Orden cut inside his defender and from six yards struck his shot straight into the arms of a grateful Lanzarote keeper.

Five minutes later and Rosmen lost his marker and his powerful header again ended up in the arms of the keeper. The game began to improve and 15 minutes from time Lanzarote´s best player this season Toñito latched onto a pass down the right wing and from a narrow angle made the keeper work with a fine save with his feet.

The arrival in the latter stages of January signing Pedrito from Fuerteventura boosted the attacking force but it wasn’t till the 93rd minute of play that the female official blew to end the disappointing match. Ironically it was the official Hirahí Hernández who was the only person who could leave the field of play with their head held high.

The Rojillos still remain in second place but now trail leaders Las Palmas B by four points. Tenerife B was unable to gain ground on Lanzarote as they were also held at home to lowly Las Zocas. Next week the Rojillos travel to Gran Canaria and face 15th placed side Teror Balompié.

TEROR BALOMPIÉ 0 LANZAROTE 3

22nd January 2011

What A great weekend for the Rojillos. A tidy 0-3 away win and with leaders Las Palmas B losing their first match in eight games Lanzarote close the gap to just a single point.

Firstly I do apologise for the late reports but my computer has had to visit the computer hospital. Hopefully it is a minor illness and all should be restored shortly.

The home side dominated the match for the opening 25 minutes and would of taken the lead but for a superb save from the Lanzarote keeper Ruymán. Gradually Lanzarote began to dictate the play and in the closing stages of the first half the Gran Canarian goalkeeper Raúl produced two fines saves both from the Rojillos central midfielder Jotha.

Seven minutes after the restart a corner was floated in and Jotha´s strike at goal went wayward but first to react was the ever alert Rosmen who wasted no time blasting the ball home and giving his side a 0-1 lead.

The Rojillos defended well not allowing the locals to have any opportunity at a strike at goal and even with a double substitution 20 minutes from time did not alter the tempo of the match for the home side.

Not only did Lanzarote win with three second half goals but the fantastic news that last seasons club Captain and Lanzarote legend Oscar Vladimir will be returning to the island and will be sporting the red and blue colours of his hometown club U.D. Lanzarote.

Vladi had been playing with Madrid club Puertollano in the Segunda B (third tier) of Spanish football but with the club in financial disarray the players had not been paid. He has left the club after appearing in all but two of the clubs games this season and with the club in a mid table position.

The opening stages were even with only one deflected shot on target as both sides fought for possession. In the 19th minute Lanzarote´s first strike on goal was to prove successful. A quick thinking headed cross from defender Guayo was superbly taken down on his chest by the in form Rosmen. The striker powerfully volleyed the ball into the roof of the net leaving goalkeeper Alberto with no hope and in doing so man of the match Rosmen notched up his 12th strike of the campaign.

Suddenly the game opened up. On the half hour mark midfielder Rayco sent in a fierce drive from the edge of the box for the visitors but the Lanzarote keeper produced a fine save to maintain the Rojillos advantage. A couple of minutes later and Rosmen caught the centre back in possession and raced onto to goal with just the keeper to beat. The keeper narrowed his options and in hindsight he would have chipped the keeper but he chose to blast the ball low and Alberto saved well with his feet. The quality striker really should have done better.

A minute before the break and good work in midfield led to the Tenerife side with a clear opportunity but Jordan’s strike failed to hit its target.

The opening 10 minutes of the second half and the Rojillos should have killed the match. Vladimir with a clear sight at goal from 10 yards chose to feed Ayoze who simply planted the ball into the open net but the linesman’s flag ended the celebrations. Two minutes later and Ayoze struck a dipping volley from 20 yards with enough venom to put down King Kong but the ball thundered off the crossbar.

In the closing seven minutes of added on time the Tenerife side pressured Lanzarote´s back four but Lanzarote´s shot stopper Ruymán was not tested.

The Rojillos find themselves back on the summit of the league table. Only a couple of weeks ago Las Palmas B had opened up a four point gap at the top but now Lanzarote are clear by a point.

Next week Lanzarote travel to Tenerife to face 13th placed side C.D. Laguna.

GOALS
1-0 min 19 Rosmen

The visit to Club Deportiva Laguna was never going to be an easy trip. The Tenerife side had a terrible start to the season losing their opening two home matches but since then they have obtained maximum points in all of their home games.

The match began at a good pace with the home side having a good chance in the opening couple of minutes though Iván Arzola´s strike was wide of its target. In the 5th minute defender Guayo hit a fierce strike which beat the Tenerife keeper but the ball struck the bottom of the post and away to safety.

The Rojillos then began to get their passing game together and with the return of Vladi partnering ex Real Madrid player Jotha in the centre of the midfield moving the ball around at pace making their opponents chase the game whilst tiring the opposition in the process. This combination is going to prove critical to Lanzarote in their attempt to return to Segunda B (league 1) at their first attempt.

Toñito created problems for the defenders with his weaving runs down the right flank. On one of these runs he teed up a strike for Rosmen but unfortunately Lanzarote´s top marksman fired skywards. The Rojillos upped the tempo even more in the final minutes of the first half but could not find a passage through the stubborn Tenerife defence.

Laguna came out for the second half with a more positive approach and if it was not for the poor finishing of the front man Pablo the hosts would have taken the lead. With the game opening up this created holes in the Tenerife defence and in the 52nd minute the Rojillos scored that all important opening goal.

A free kick from the impressive defender Guayo was only parried away by the Laguna keeper and striker Echedey reacted instantly like all good strikers and slid the ball home giving the Rojillos a 0-1 advantage.

The home side had little alternative but to try and attack the enemy. The clearest chance fell to striker Nata but Lanzarote´s number one was equal to the danger and seemed determined to hold on for his fourth consecutive clean sheet.

In the final seven minutes of added on time the home side launched all they had into the Rojillo danger zone in a desperate attempt to draw level but Lanzarote held firm and flew home with the knowledge that they were still league leaders.

The next three games are massive. The Rojillos will be playing against clubs lingering around the foot of the table whilst Lanzarote´s main competitors Las Palmas have one home match before starting a sequence of three away games. The Rojillos will be looking to at least maintain their one point lead at the top and possibly increase their eight point lead from the fourth and last play off spot when fourth from bottom C.D. Mensajero visit Arrecife this Sunday.

GOALS
0-1 min 52 Echedey

All clubs at some point in the season have to deal with an injury crisis and for Lanzarote their time had come. Eight of the squad were injured and a further two out due to suspension. The four outfield players sitting on the bench were either carrying knocks or returning from long term injuries.

Drafted into the squad was Cadete player (under 16´s) Wilson. The shocked 15 year old debutant started the match on the right side of midfield.

Neither side dominated in the opening stages however the first good chance of the match fell for the Conejeros (locals). Ironically it was the youngster Wilson who was going to taste his first strike at goal in Spain’s fourth tier of football. The under 16´s star was put through with just the keeper to beat but with the knowledge that the defender was rapidly closing him down he rushed his attempt and the keeper saved with ease.

Meanwhile the La Palma side were making a mockery of their poor league position confidently passing the ball around and were a constant threat to the Rojillos back four.

In the 25th minute the visitors had an unbelievable chance to take the lead. Striker Yeray muscled his way past the last central defender but with the ball positioned perfectly for a clean strike, he somehow hooked his six yard shot wide of the left upright.

The reprieve didn’t last long. Less than a minute later the La Palma side got the goal they deserved. Midfielder Joel lashed the ball low and hard from 12 yards which whistled past the Lanzarote keeper Ruymán ending his run of five games without conceding.

Just after the half hour a terrific run from Toñito down the right flank was finished off with an inch perfect cross into the centre, striker Yaco arrived on cue but his powerful header flew a foot over the bar. The visitors could have extended their lead just before the break but the header from Borja Martín flew straight into the arms of the grateful Lanzarote keeper.

The visitors came out for the second half not looking to sit back and guard their slender lead; on the contrary the first opportunity fell to them in the 52nd minute. The hard to handle front man Yeray fed Borja Martin but the midfielders second clear cut chance of the game was fired wide from just in front of the penalty spot.

Lanzarote began to match the tempo of the away side with Jotha orchestrating the attacks from the centre of midfield. The visitors organized defence made life difficult for the Rojillos and to break through this stone wall was not going to be an easy task. In the final 10 minutes the home side was firing on all cylinders. Sub Rosmen still nursing an injury was brought on and so nearly the gamble paid dividends.

In the 42nd minute Toñito raced to the byline and pulled the ball back for Rosmen, Lanzarote´s top marksman blasted the ball goal bound but incredibly keeper Kevin saved with his toe sending the ball high and over. Two minutes later and a good header from Rosmen from 2 yards was smothered on the line by the impressive keeper.

The match could have gone on for another twenty four hours but it just seemed it was one of those days where the high flying Rojillos were not going to score.

Las Palmas B now open up a two point lead at the top. Tenerife B also won and move back into third position seven points behind Lanzarote.

The Rojillos will travel to Tenerife next week and face another in form bottom club Las Zocas. Whilst spending a large part of this season in the bottom four a nine game run with only one loss has pushed the Tenerife side up to 16th spot three points off the drop zone. Meanwhile Las Palmas B begin their three consecutive away matches including the tough derby game against arch enemies Tenerife B.

GOALS
0-1 min 26 Joel

The game began at a slow pace with the local side defending and with Lanzarote dominating possession in midfield. In the 19th minute Lanzarote opened the scoring. Javi Betancort robbed the home side of possession in the centre and fed striker Yaco who made no mistake beating goalkeeper Dani to send the visitors 0-1 up.

Less than a minute later and Toñito had a fantastic opportunity to double his sides lead but his shot fell straight into the arms of the Las Zocas keeper. Gradually the home side began to control their nerves but it was the Rojillos who controlled possession and looked the more threatening but were unable to extend on their lead in the remainder of the first half.

Las Zocas did pose more of a threat in the opening of the second period but were restricted into firing long balls into the Rojillos danger zone. Lanzarote dealt with the pressure with ease waiting to hit their opponents on the break.

In the 74th minute Lanzarote found the all important second goal. A defensive mistake allowed Javi Betancort to get through the last line of defence, he then squeezed the ball past the Tenerife goalkeeper to give his side a comfortable 0-2 lead.

Deep into stoppage time the Lanzarote goalkeeper Alejandro brought down striker Alejandro and the official pointed to the spot. You’ve guessed it! Alejandro picked himself up from the floor and blasted past Alejandro to reduce the deficit to 1-2. No time remained for the home side to draw level as the Ref blew full time straight after the restart.

Las Palmas B lost the day previous so Lanzarote knew that if they won in Tenerife that they would regain top spot. Lanzarote´s home form has been jittery as late but away the Rojillos have not tasted defeat since the 14th November. Lanzarote lead the table by a point from Las Palmas B but Tenerife side Atlético Granadilla look set to gatecrash the party by moving into third place after picking up 13 points out of a possible 15 and now trail the Rojillos by six points with a game in hand. Lanzarote still have to visit both Las Palmas B and Atlético Granadilla on the run in.

Next Sunday Lanzarote host second from bottom side C.D. Victoria. The Tenerife side will be boosted by a 2-0 win over the weekend and know three points against the league leaders could see them move out of the relegation places.

GOALS
0-1 min 19 Yaco
0-2 min 74 Javi Betancort
1-2 min 93 Alejandro (penalty)

The first half was a poor affair with Lanzarote edging possession and with the two best chances. In the 32nd minute Toñito cut inside his defender and unleashed a powerful low drive which was saved by the feet of veteran keeper Antonio.

Two minutes later and defender Angel Gil saw his strike from the edge of the box clip the woodwork with the keeper well beaten. The La Palma side replied in the 36th minute with a well worked move down the right which led to midfielder Závan to have a clear strike at goal. His effort from 10 yards was miss hit and comfortably saved by the Rojillos keeper Alejandro.

The beginning of the second period did not fair much better in terms of action. In the 12th minute Toñito went on one of his tantalizing runs beating several defenders and unleashed a strike which beat the keeper but unfortunately beat the far post by a couple of inches.

The second from bottom side spurred on by last weeks win did not seem in awe of the league leaders and proved this by taking the lead on the hour. A quick and clever one two on the edge of the box released striker Alamo Oliver and from a narrow angle he powered in a drive beating the Lanzarote keeper to the far side and give his team a surprise 0-1 advantage.

Five minutes later and Lanzarote were awarded a generous penalty by the official. A cross blasted into the defender from only two yards struck his arm and shockingly the Ref pointed to the spot. Jotha sent the keeper the wrong way and thought that he had leveled the score. Correctly the official ordered the spot kick to be retaken as a host of Lanzarote players entered in to the area before the ball was struck. Jotha then opted for the other corner and the keeper read his intentions and tipped the ball onto the post and away for a corner.

In the 77th minute the away side should have doubled their lead. The small, fast and impressive front man Alexander outpaced the Rojillo defence and found himself with just the keeper to beat. The keeper stood tall till the last and Alexander’s chip was well read and palmed away to safety from the Lanzarote shot stopper.

This was the last chance of the match for the La Palma side as Lanzarote dominated. The breakthrough came six minutes from time. A cross from the right by sub Ayoze was expertly controlled by Yaco with his left foot and on the turn from eight yards he fired in a volley into the far right hand corner with his right foot leaving the keeper motionless and leveling the score at one apiece.

Five minutes into stoppage time and Lanzarote were awarded a free kick in a seemingly non dangerous position. Defender Guayo swept in a low and meaningful cross which found its way through a host of players and the ball trickled past the unlucky Victoria keeper earning Lanzarote maximum points.

As soon as the restart began the Ref whistled for full time. The hosts celebrated as they might but the poor away side looked dejected as they definitely felt they were worthy of at least a point.

Whilst Las Palmas B was not playing this victory increased the Rojillos lead at the top to four points and is their fifth win in their last six outings.

Next week is set to be a tough encounter away against third placed side Atlético Granadilla. The Tenerife side has also been in wicked form of late unbeaten in their last six games, winning four of them.

GOALS
0-1min 61 Alamo Oliver
1-1min 84 Yaco
2-1 min 95 Guayo

A draw looked odds on in this tight affair with both sides being in excellent form of late. The Tenerife side began the match the better of the two sides and in the 12th minute striker Carlos was put through but Rojillos keeper Alejandro read the danger and smothered the ball.

Lanzarote gradually settled and in the 20th minute had their best chance of the afternoon when midfielder Rubén Rodríguez saw his effort come crashing off the Tenerife bar and away to safety.

The half ended with a chance for either side. In the 33rd minute a strike by Iván Reverón was comfortably saved by the Lanzarote keeper Alejandro, and then a few minutes later a free kick by Jotha flew inches past the right hand post for the visitors.

The Rojillos had their backs to the wall the entire second half and didn’t threaten Grandillas´s keeper at any moment. A sturdy defensive display and some moments of brilliance from the Lanzarote keeper kept the hosts at bay.

In the 50th minute a long range effort from midfielder Iván Martín whistled off the crossbar and ten minutes later the same player would have given his side the lead if it wasn’t for a superb save from the Lanzarote number one.

For the rest of the match the Rojillos seemed content to sit behind the ball and restricted the home side to long range efforts.

This draw halts the three match away winning streak, nevertheless the Rojillos should be extremely content with their point which keeps the gap to third place to eight points. Ten matches remain for Lanzarote and eleven for title rivals Las Palmas B. Lanzarote next game is a tasty affair against local rivals Marítima. The game has been brought forward and will be played Friday 11th March at 8.45pm. Las Palmas B will also have a tough task on their hands when they visit their bitter rivals and fourth placed side Tenerife B.

Once again this game will not be remembered as a classic but with just one defeat in the last 14 games Lanzarote are in the prime position with just nine matches remaining. No team in this league are guaranteed automatic promotion but the league Champions would only have a two leg one match play off with the winners of that being promoted to Segunda B (league 1).

Even if a team loses this match they would still have another opportunity by joining the three other teams in the play offs. Another incentive for finishing top is that you automatically qualify for next seasons Copa Del Rey (F.A.Cup) and if you wish to see Lanzarote´s love affair with the Cup just click onto History.

The opening 20 minutes were fought mainly in the centre of the pitch with both sides showing each other a little too much respect and with neither side forcing the play.

In the 26th minute Lanzarote´s first attack of any meaning was to prove fruitful. Toñito raced down the left wing and cut the ball back to an unmarked Rubén Rodríguez. The Captain back in form following his two month injury absence calmly planted the ball wide of the Marítima keeper Kevin into the bottom right hand corner giving his side a 1-0 advantage.

On the half hour the Rojillos should have doubled their lead. Danger man Toñito set up Rosman, his initial strike was well saved but the rebound fell back in the path of Lanzarote´s top marksman and his second effort was brilliantly beaten away to safety by the Marítima keeper.

The Rojillos had settled and were dominating proceedings whereas the Rojinegras (red and blacks) lacked ideas and were fortunate to go into the break with just a one goal deficit.

Five minutes after the break and the Rojillos had another opportunity to strengthen their grip on the match. A cross from the right was controlled by Ayoze but the normally ever reliable midfielder scuffed his shot wide.

The away side then entered into their best stage of the match though were restricted to long range efforts all of which failed to test the Lanzarote keeper Alejandro. In the 65th minute Rosman was put through but again the Marítima keeper kept his team in the match by saving with his feet.

With the game not yet won the away side pushed a defender up front leaving a skeleton defence. In the 92nd minute a fierce drive from sub Francis Torres found its way through a host of players but the Lanzarote keeper had his eye on the ball all the way and saved with ease.

Moments later and with the last action of the match Ayoze set up Rosman. The Marítima keeper once again excelled producing a brilliant save with his feet to deny the Lanzarote striker for the umpteenth time.

It proved to be a great weekend for the Rojillos as their closest rivals Las Palmas B lost 0-1 against their fiercest rivals Tenerife B. Lanzarote open up a five point gap though Las Palmas B do have a game in hand and are yet to host Lanzarote. For both teams the fight for the Championship lies in their own hands.

Lanzarote will cross the 10km stretch of water to Fuerteventura next week as they take on mid table side Playas Jandia.

GOALS
1-0 min 26 Rubén Rodríguez

The first half was dominated by the home side but with poor finishing and some superb goalkeeping by Alejandro the Rojillos went into the break with the game scoreless.

Many times this season the Rojillos have not played a particularly good first half and then completely changed the face of the game in the second half as this was the case late on Saturday afternoon in Fuerteventura.

The Rojillos began the second period confidentially; nevertheless it was still the home side creating the better chances. In the 71st minute and with the Rojillos mounting the pressure a penalty was awarded for the visitors with striker Caliche being accused of handling inside the area. In form Rubén Rodríguez calmly stepped up and slotted home giving his side a 0-1 lead.

Only a couple of minutes later and Rubén Rodríguez controlled the ball inside the box and from a narrow angle beat keeper David Alemán and the Rojillos found themselves with a very pleasant 0-2 advantage.

Seven minutes from time and recently returned centre back Eliot received his second yellow card and the Rojillos were forced to play the closing minutes with only 10 men. The home side had run out of ideas as Lanzarote strolled home recording their seventh win in their last nine outings.

Rojillos manager Quico de Diego will be delighted with this away win and also the return to form of Captain Rubén Rodríguez but will be disheartened with his defensive problems. Regular Centre back Adrián Martín will be out at least till the end of the season with a bad knee injury and now fellow centre back Eliot will be suspended for a couple of matches.

Next week Lanzarote host U.D. Guía. The Gran Canarian side are just a point clear of relegation but have been in good form of late picking up seven points in their last three games.

GOALS
0-1min 71 Rubén Rodríguez (penalty)
0-2min 73 Rubén Rodríguez

Ten minutes after the restart and Rosmen thought he had scored the third. His clever back header found the net but the goal was disallowed for a dubious offside decision.

The tall striker only had to wait a further five minutes for another crack at the whip. Left back Guayo curled in a delightful cross and Rosmen used the pace of the pass to volley home in spectacular fashion from eight yards and record his 14th strike of the campaign.

The Rojillos had barely needed to get out of second gear to find themselves 3-0 up and with the game won and 30 minutes left to play they began to play some neat football.

A great move orchestrated by Capain Rubén Rodríguez found Rosmen, the striker full of confidence back heeled to the alert Toñito but his goal bound strike hit a defender and a wonder move ended in nothing.

The away side offered nothing in return and the Rojillos went on and picked up their 26th point out of the last 30 available.

Nearest rivals Las Palmas B could only manage a draw so the Rojillos enter into their final seven matches with a seven point lead though the Gran Canarian side does have a game in hand.

Lanzarote now face their biggest challenge to date this season with two consecutive away fixtures both in Gran Canaria. First up is Villa Santa Brigída who are currently in fifth position and are desperate for a top four finish to qualify for a play off spot and next will be the title decider against Las Palmas B.

The club is organizing a trip to Las Palmas on the 10th April for the title clash. The cost for residents is 63 Euros and includes flights and bus to match. If anyone is interested call Yuni at the club on 928 812787 (Spanish speaking only) or let me know.

GOALS
1-0min 36 Javi Betancort
2-0min 40 Rosmen
3-0min 60 Rosmen

Lanzarote dominated possession early on but with the visitors sitting behind the ball and packing their defence it was a frustrating start to the match for the Conejeros (locals).

The breakthrough came in the 36th minute. A free kick whipped in by Jotha took a deflection and midfielder Javi Betancort reacted brilliantly with a glancing header which flew into the bottom left hand corner giving his side a deserved 1-0 lead.

Four minutes later and the Rojillos doubled their lead. Rosmen received the ball on the edge of the area and with the defenders backing away he decided to give it a crack. What a good decision it turned out to be as his powerful low strike beat the keeper at his near post and sent his side into the half time break with a commanding 2-0 advantage.

The Gran Canarian side is only three points off a play off spot following their third win on the bounce against league leaders U.D. Lanzarote.

Both sides began the match positively with the home team edging possession and chances at goal. In the 26th minute Rojillos manager Quico de Diego was forced to replace goalkeeper Alejandro with Ruymán following an injury sustained as the Lanzarote keeper was injured during a poor clearance.

In the 38th minute the home side broke the deadlock with a strike from midfielder Héctor Figuerao and only a minute later the locals should have doubled their advantage. Striker David Figuerao found himself inside the box with just the keeper to beat. The replacement keeper stretched and finger tipped the strikers effort away for a corner.

Moments later and the goal scorer saw his header from a corner kicked off the line by Rojillos defender Guayo. Lanzarote saw off this flurry of pressure and went into the break trailing 1-0.

The Rojillos dominated the midfield in the second half and pressed forward only to find a well organized defence and confident goalkeeper ahead of them.

The hosts came close to extending their lead in the 77th minute from a counter attack. Sub Angel fed Héctor Figuerao but the goal scorer’s powerful strike was struck directly at the Lanzarote keeper and was saved comfortably.

Lanzarote piled on the pressure till the final minute but could not find a way through the defence of Villa Santa Brígida and suffered their first away loss in their last nine outings.

Lanzarote remain top but their lead has been cut to four points. Second placed Las Palmas B are hot on their tails following their 2-1 home win and next Sunday the two meet in Las Palmas in what potentially is the title decider.

GOALS
1-0 min 38 Héctor Figuerao

Midweek, Lanzarote´s closest rivals Las Palmas B played their match in hand and lost 5-2 so the main objective for the Rojillos on Sunday was to avoid defeat at all costs.

The game began at a pace expected of two teams in title contention. The first strike at goal came in the fifth minute. Vladimir firing in an effort from just outside the area which flew inches past the Las Palmas post.

The home side went in front in the 12th minute. Prior to the match the artificial pitch had been watered heavily and as players from both sides looked as though they were auditioning for a part in Dancing on Ice, Lanzarote´s centre back Eliot slipped and the ball touched his hand. To the shock of all in the stadium the official pointed to the spot and midfielder Cristian Herrera converted the gift to put his side 1-0 up.

Angered by this injustice the Rojillos went in search of an equalizer. In the 24th minute Captain Rubén Rodríguez released Toñito down the right and the winger flew down the flank and produced a pinpoint cross at the near post for striker Rosmen. The tall forward executed this fine move with an unstoppable header and leveled the score at one apiece.

The home side finished the half the better of the two sides and were denied the lead when Lanzarote keeper Ruymán produced a fine saved to deny Cristian Herrera and moments later Javi Betancort cleared off the Rojillo goal line following a header from Hernán.

Lanzarote upped the tempo for the second period and began to dominate. On the hour mark a cross from Rubén Rodríguez was met by the head of the in form Rosmen but his goal bound effort was tipped away for a corner by Las Palmas keeper Alberto.

Only three minutes later and another superb pass by the inspired Rubén Rodríguez allowed Ayoze a run inside the box, the talented midfielder then drew the keeper and cleverly pulled the ball back for Rosmen to tap home his 16th strike of the season and give the league leaders a deserved 1-2 advantage.

The Rojillos went looking to strengthen their grip on the match. A free kick by Jotha found the head of Jonathan Torres but his effort fell straight into the body of the Las Palmas keeper.

With eight minutes remaining the home side drew level. A free kick on the edge of the area was taken by midfielder Derek, His shot found its way through the wall and was saved by Ruymán but first to respond was defender Dani Achi who poked the ball into the empty net to make the score 2-2.

The home side that had up until then looked weak during the second period then smelt blood and went all out to secure victory but as they came closer into the Rojillo danger zone their attacks petered out.

Late on Rosmen was a whisker away from completing a hat trick and sub Saúl also had a chance to claim all three points in the final minute but squandered the opportunity.

As the Ref blew for full time it was Lanzarote who were happier with the result. Tenerife B have now entered the frame as true title contenders following their five game winning streak and have leapfrogged Las Palmas B by goal difference into second position.

Next week will be crucial as Lanzarote host the in form Tenerife B. A win here for the Rojillos and this would end Tenerife B chances of the league title but a win for Tenerife would see them close the gap to a mere point.

GOALS
1-0 min 12 Cristian Herrera (penalty)
1-1 min 24 Rosmen
2-1 min 61 Rosmen
2-2 min 82 Dani Achi

The Rojillos upped their game in the second half and Lanzarote´s midfield dynamo Vladi was in total control of the centre of the park. The Tenerife side was just about to pay for all their missed chances in the opening 45 minutes.

Four minutes into the second period and Ayoze turned his defender on the edge of the box and fooled the keeper by blasting the ball low just inside his near post to give the Rojillos a 1-0 advantage.

This goal took the pressure off the home side as the Rojillos began to stroke the ball around the Arrecife stadium with ease. Sub Jonathan Torres who has had an injury prone season was brought on at half time and his many years of playing Segunda A (Championship) football helped the Rojillos transform the match.

It was that man Torres who killed the game off in the 74th minute. Ayoze steamed down the wing and rifled in a great low cross and the poacher that Torres is, managed to get a toe on the ball directing past the keeper and to give his side that all important second goal.

The Rojillos were looking good for their 2-0 advantage and slowly took their foot off the pedal allowing the visitors to rally late on. The Lanzarote keeper who initially had a wobbly start to the match produced several top class saves and in the final minute produced a brilliant double save, first from a header and then the blasted follow up was superbly parried away for a corner. The Lanzarote number one refused to get beaten and Lanzarote were jubilant at the final whistle with a victory that all but sees off Tenerife’s title challenge.

Lanzarote have opened up a seven point gap between them and Tenerife B with four games to play however Las Palmas won away 1-2 and are back into second spot four points behind the Rojillos.

Another note of celebration is that Lanzarote have now guaranteed themselves entry into Spain’s biggest Cup competition next season in the Copa Del Rey. Only the league winners are guaranteed a place in the cup but with the B teams of Las Palmas and Tenerife unable to participate as their first team will be in the competition Lanzarote will be in the draw instead.

Fourth placed Atlético Granadilla can mathematically clinch the Copa Del Rey spot but they would have to win their remaining four fixtures and claw back a 22 goal disadvantage whilst Lanzarote lose all their games.

Memories will come flooding back to the fans when the mighty Real Madrid fought out a tough 1-3 victory against minnows Lanzarote. Cup successes against Athletic Bilbao and Mallorca will never be chalked off the minds of the local folk. Once more the Lanzarote fans can dream this summer as Cup fever will kick off early next season.

The league title is far from over as Lanzarote have to travel to La Palma next week and take on bogey side S.D. Tenisca. The Rojillos have only won once in La Palma against Tenisca in 16 attempts whilst the home side has won 10. The La Palma side is also one of only two sides to beat the Rojillos in Lanzarote this season.

GOALS
1-0min 49 Ayoze
2-0min 74 Jonathan Torres

The visitors started the match in much better fashion than Lanzarote and were unlucky not to take the lead in the opening minute. Lanzarote centre back Saúl gifted the ball to striker Germán and after rounding the Keeper Saúl managed to get back to the goal line and clear the Tenerife strikers pass into the net.

Only a minute later and a poor clearance by the Lanzarote goalkeeper Ruymán was picked up by ex Rojillo Oscar Martin. The young winger who has been closing in on a first team call was quickly closed down and was unable to get his strike on target.

The defence of Lanzarote without their regular two centre backs through injury and suspension gradually began to calm their nerves and the balance of play became more even.

A strike from winger Toñito whistled over the Tenerife bar and minutes later a powerful effort from Ayoze was well saved by the Tenerife keeper Roberto. Moments before half time the Rojillos leading goal scorer Rosmen headed narrowly over the bar.

Both sides began the match patiently with most of the play in midfield and with the two teams more concerned about conceding rather than scoring. Out of the blue and with the home side on a counter attack the La Palma outfit finished off a good move with a player who has scored many times against Lanzarote, front man Memo.

The Rojillos then started to dominate possession but lacked ideas in the final third whereas the home team defended well and had two chances on the break to extend their lead. The Rojillos finished the first half thankful to be just a single goal down.

As in many games this season Lanzarote put in a much better performance in the second half of a match. After only three minutes in the second period Ayoze struck the bar from a long range effort and Toñito hit a post only a few minutes later.

As time ticked by Lanzarote seemed frustrated by a well organized midfield and defence from the home team and did not pose a threat to the La Palma goalkeeper. Midway through the half and striker Dani López found himself alone in the box with just the Lanzarote keeper Ruymán to beat. The Lanzarote goalkeeper produced a good save tipping the ball away for a corner and keeping his sides chances alive.

In the closing minutes the Rojillos believed they had earned a penalty when defender Ángel Gil went down in the box but the Ref waved away the appeals and the Rojillos suffered only their second away defeat since November.

In the last four matches the Rojillos have only picked up four points, however, all those points have been against the two other sides that are battling for the league title.

Las Palmas B and Tenerife B both won at the weekend but with three games remaining the Rojillos are still in pole position albeit by the narrowest of margins.

Next week Lanzarote will host another tough La Palma side U.D. Tijarafe. These teams met just prior to Christmas and the game ended in a goalless draw. Kick off time for this match has just been confirmed and will be at 12.30pm.

GOALS
1-0 min 17 Memo

The game began with both sides fighting for possession with neither side outdoing the other. The visitors were the first to strike at goal in anger when strike duo Manzi fed his team mate Diego Tachín but the La Palma front man fired high and over.

As the game progressed so did Lanzarote´s dominance and it seemed a goal would be inevitable. Midfield partners Vladi and Jotha shone in the centre and with Ayoze at the centre of everything the Rojillos were looking in good form.

In the 28th minute and after prolonged pressure and a series of good chances Ayoze finally got reward for his good work with a clever tap in, deceiving the goalkeeper from a narrow angle to give the Rojillos a deserved 1-0 advantage.

Ten minutes later and the Conejeros (locals) should have doubled their lead. The La Palma goalkeeper Adonay momentarily lost control of his senses chasing a ball heading out wide and pole axed the Lanzarote winger Toñito giving the Rojillos an obvious penalty.

Jotha stepped up and hit the ball low to the keepers left but Adonay redeemed himself guessing correctly and saving well at his post.

Two minutes into added on time in the first half and the Rojillos got that all important second goal albeit somewhat fortuesly. Captain for the day Ángel Gil fired in a cross from deep on the right wing and the ball ended perfectly in the far corner of the net with the keeper stranded. The Rojillos went into the break with that final kick looking in total command with a 2-0 advantage.

The Rojillos went into the second half with the desire to score the killing third goal as soon as possible. Jotha had a free kick which was saved by Adonay and Javi Betancort came close when his header struck the post.

As time past by the Rojillos decided to settle with what they had which allowed the La Palma side some possession. Very rarely did they pose a threat for Lanzarote´s experienced midfield but when the visitors did there was no way they were going to be allowed past the leagues strongest defence.

This 2-0 win sees the Rojillos back into top spot by a point with just two league matches remaining. Next week Las Palmas B is at home against a side with nothing to play for whereas the Rojillos travel to Tenerife to face relegation threatened San Isidrio. The Tenerife side is five points from safety but do have a game in hand on their rivals. They have won their last two matches and were on course for a hat trick of wins last Sunday but with a 0-1 advantage the referee abandoned the match following a downpour in the 52nd minute.

GOALS
1-0min 28 Ayoze
2-0min 45+2 Ángel Gil

The Rojillos can only blame themselves as the second from bottom side outplayed the league leaders and deservedly won the match with two second half goals making it a hat trick of consecutive wins. This has given San Isidro real hope of survival by only being two points from safety and with a game in hand on their rivals.

The home side dominated from the outset. The San Isidro two front men Tarek and Pacha both had chances to put their side in front. In the 20th minute Tarek headed over the bar from inside the six yard box and nine minutes later Pacha´s shot whistled past the upright.

The best chance to break the deadlock fell to the Tenerife side in the 37th minute. Striker Pacha was clean through but wasted too much time to pick his spot which allowed a defender to clear the danger with a last gasp block.

Lanzarote´s only strike in anger in the first half fell to Ayoze four minutes before the break. His effort was superbly saved by goalkeeper José Enrique who at full stretch palmed the ball to safety keeping the game scoreless at the half time interval.

The second half began in similar fashion to the first with the Tenerife side looking the most dangerous. Just after the hour mark the hosts deservedly took the lead. After several blocked shots at goal the ball fell to striker Pacha and he made no mistake firing the ball into the back of the net from close range.

Rojillos manager Quico de Diego made the necessary changes bringing on Jonathan Torres and Rúben Rodriguez but this did not alter the state of play. Only Jonathan Torres looked like producing any danger but when the Rojillos came close they were met by a confident looking goalkeeper.

The final nail in the coffin was hammered in three minutes into added on time. Jotha was adjudged to have brought down sub Jairo and midfielder Aday blasted home from the spot giving his side a deserved 2-0 victory.

With just one match remaining Las Palmas B do have the initiative but the league title is still far from a formality. Lanzarote must win at home next week against mid table side C.D. Vera whilst Las Palmas B have to travel to Tenerife and face 14th placed side C.D. Laguna. The Tenerife side will certainly not make life easy for their arch rivals and should Lanzarote win and Las Palmas B only manage a draw then Lanzarote would be declared league Champions on goal difference.

GOALS
1-0Pacha min 62
2-0Aday min 93 (penalty)

Three minutes before the interval and Lanzarote put themselves in a commanding position. January signing Pedro controlled the ball inside the area and toe pocked his shot under the advancing keeper sending the Rojillos in for their half time cuppa with a 2-0 advantage.

Lanzarote came out for the second period with the determination to end the match as a contest as quickly as possible. Five minutes in and Pedro fed fellow striker Rosman but from 12 yards the Rojillos leading scorer blasted high and over.

The blistering heat was taking its toll on both sides and the game lacked a little penetration and errors for both sides were inevitable.

With 20 minutes remaining an error in the Rojillo defence allowed striker Yonny to squeeze between the two Lanzarote centre backs and fire home, putting his side within touching distance at 2-1.

If the local fans thought they might be in for a nervous ending Toñito eased the tension by restoring the two goal advantage two minutes after conceding. The Lanzarote winger fired in a beauty from 15 yards low and powerful beating the outstretched keeper and in to the left hand corner.

For the remainder of the match the Rojillos held possession and with the visitors having to chase the game in temperatures exceeding 30 degrees this proved to be an impossible task.

Lanzarote had now done what they had set out to do by beating the opposition so it was just an anxious few minutes to confirm that Laguna had beaten Las Palmas B and Lanzarote to be announced as Champions of the Third Division. With that confirmed the celebrations began.

As automatic promotion for sides below the second tier of football in Spain does not exist Lanzarote are still two games off an immediate return to Segunda B (league1).

On Monday evening the draw will take place to see which mainland club the Rojillos will face. The first play off will be Sunday coming and the return leg is a week later. When the time and date are announced I will update the page.

Whichever club wins will be promoted and the losers will still have another chance by joining the three remaining clubs who finished in the play off positions with one space available for promotion. In reality this means that there could still be another six matches remaining before the players can enjoy their summer holidays.

Whatever does happen this has been a fantastic season for Lanzarote by already qualifying for the Copa Del Rey and finishing as Champions. The Canary Isles has produced some quality players of late, David Silva (Man City) from Gran Canaria and Pedro (Barcelona) from Tenerife to name but a few. Many of Las Palmas first team are foreigners as are Tenerife whereas 90 per cent of Lanzarote´s squad are born and bred Conejeros (locals) so hats off to the Rojillos for finishing above both of their second teams.

An extra spur for the Rojillos is knowing that the relegation of Tenerife from Segunda A (Championship) will produce a memorable derby match should promotion be achieved.

GOALS
1-0min 18 Rubén Rodríguez (penalty)
2-0min 42 Pedro
2-1 min 70 Yonny
3-1 min 72 Toñito

The day began with Las Palmas B league leaders by two points but still needing a win away in Tenerife against 14th placed side C.D. Laguna. There was no way any Tenerife side even with nothing to play for would help their Canarian neighbours in any sporting contest so the Rojillos knew that if they did their job then all was up for grabs.

The Rojillos looked nervous in the opening stages and the visitors enjoyed the majority of possession but lacked ideas further up field.

In the 18th minute the Rojillos early nervousness all but ended when they were awarded a penalty following a push on striker Rosman. Rubén Rodriguez hit low towards the right hand post and even though the keeper got a hand to the ball the pace of the spot kick was too much and Lanzarote were 1-0 up.

The visitor’s best moment of the half came in the 34th minute; a goal bound shot inside the area by defender Aaron was blocked by a Lanzarote defender with a goal saving lunge.

It was now important for Lanzarote to hold firm as it was only a goal and away goals do not count as double. Should the tie be level after the two legs then penalties will be the deciding factor. Burgos on the other hand was in search of their sixth consecutive away win and seemed to be on track.

Two minutes before the break and the Conejeros (locals) thought they had leveled. Centre back Eliot seemed to have beaten the Burgos keeper to the ball with his outstretched leg nudging the ball into the net with his toe but for some reason the official awarded a free kick for an infringement on the keeper.

The Rojillos came out for the second period eager in their search for a goal. In the 57th minute Vladi made a surging run down the left wing and back heeled the ball to Toñito whose precise cross was nodded home at the far post by the in form Ayoze which sent the local fans wild with joy.

Lanzarote were now on top and the fans urged their team forward to snatch a winner. The intensity of the match made it a great spectacle to watch with the Rojillos winning every 50/50 challenge and intent on taking some sort of advantage with them to Burgos next Sunday.

In the 89th minute Lanzarote were awarded a free kick on the edge of the area. Ayoze struck the ball low which went through the wall and goalkeeper Aurreko failed to hold, the rebound fell in front of the six yard box and first to pounce was Lanzarote´s leading striker Rosmen to blast home and give his side a deserved 2-1 win as the Arrecife stadium rocked like it hasn’t rocked for years.

The Club is trying to arrange a trip to Burgos for the return leg so if anyone is interested drop me a line.

GOALS
0-1min 36 Lobera
1-1min 57 Ayoze
2-1 min 89 Rosmen

The game began at a fast pace with the Rojillos enjoying possession but unable to create any clear chances. In the 26th minute the visitors had the ball in the back of the net. A free kick dangerously swung in at pace from the left was volleyed home by winger Pablo Alvarez but thankfully and to the joy of 95 per cent of the crowd the linesman flagged for offside and the Ref signaled for a free kick amid a huge sense of relief.

The Castilla y León district Champions began to come to terms with the astro turf surface and their passing became fast and accurate and with winger Troiteiro displaying his dazzling talents the Rojillos were at times chasing shadows.

In the 36th minute Burgos broke the deadlock with a beauty. Danger man Troiteiro weaved his way along the edge of the area and with the home defence cautious about tackling the quick footed winger he neatly passed the ball, splitting the Lanzarote back four to team mate Lobera who calmly slotted the ball wide of Rojillos keeper Ruymán and into the far corner of the net. The classy winger Troiteiro added to his portfolio of talent after last weeks Messi type goal, check it on youtube.

The game was far from over as away goals do not count, so if the score remained 1-0 to the locals at full time then the match would be decided with penalties.

For the opening 20 minutes of the second half the locals enjoyed the majority of possession but Lanzarote posed a serious threat on the break with Toñito threatening the Burgos back four.

If the first goal was dubious then the second goal for the mainland side can only be described as genius. In the 65th minute winger Troiteiro danced around defender Josu and weaved his way through to the byline drawing the Rojillos keeper, he then pulled the ball back for Hugo Salamanca to rifle his shot into an unguarded net sending the home side 2-0 up. (3-2 agg).

It is no wonder why Spanish football is at an all time high with players like Troiteiro applying their trade in Spain’s fourth tier. The Spanish league system is complicated to say the least but who can argue with the European and World Champions. Even their club football with Barcelona is at a ridiculously unbelievable level. Nevertheless this player Troiteiro will be playing football at a much higher level soon.

With 13 minutes remaining wonderful footwork from Troiteiro equaled with a pass that carved open the Rojillos back four let in Sub Espinosa. The linesman failed to raise his flag even though Espinosa was clearly over a yard offside. The substitute gratefully chipped the oncoming keeper making the game relatively safe with a two goal cushion.

In stoppage time Espinosa began the celebrations early with his second and his team’s fourth goal of the afternoon ending the game at 4-0 (5-2 agg).

The Rojillos headed to Burgos with a bad feeling between the two sides following handbags at 10 paces in Lanzarote the week before. The Champions of Castilla Y León region of Spain did not allow their visitors use of their pitch which is the normal custom the day prior to the match and this all added to the bad feeling.

As expected Burgos bombarded their visitors in the opening stages but the Rojillos defence held firm and as the match progressed the visitors began to feel comfortable on the freshly cut grass.

In the 28th minute and after withstanding all this pressure Lanzarote found themselves with the best chance of the match to date and find that all important first goal. Ayoze robbed the ball in the centre and with the keeper off guard he tried his luck from distance only to see the ball whistle agonizingly wide of the upright.

Lanzarote were looking more and more comfortable but five minutes from half time the whole situation changed. A ball sent into the edge of the Lanzarote 12 yard box was controlled by top scorer Hugo Salamanca and tracked by Rojillos central defender Acai. As soon as Salamanca received the ball he turned and fell in dramatic fashion. The Referee was totally sold with his theatrical performance and to the disbelief of the Lanzarote players awarded a penalty kick. Hugo Salamanca dusted off his make up and converted giving his side a 1-0 lead (2-2 on aggregate).

Boosted by their good fortune the local side went in for the kill and amounted total assault in the Rojillos danger zone. A total of eleven corners Lanzarote had to endure during the first period so when the Ref blew for half time the Lanzarote players greeted the whistle with relief.

The game began well for the Rojillos with Ayoze going close in the 9th minute and only three minutes later Rosmen forced the Almansa keeper into a fine save, following up was Jonathan Torres but his outstretched foot was inches away from connecting and stabbing home the rebound.

Totally against the run of play the locals went ahead in the 24th minute. A cross from the right wing by Rubén Jurado towards the near post was misjudged by the Lanzarote centre back Acai, his interception only guided the ball into his own net giving Almansa a 1-0 advantage.

The 1700 strong crowd were delighted by their good fortune which helped calm their team’s nerve as they began to look the better of the two sides. Ten minutes later and winger Santi outpaced Rojillos defender Eliot down the left wing. He cut inside and unleashed a powerful shot which the Lanzarote keeper Ruymán was relieved to see hit the post and roll away for a goal kick.

Just before the break striker Meca (brother of ex Lanzarote player Meca) came close with a header as the locals ended the half stronger.

After a good start the Rojillos found themselves a goal down and desperate to find an away goal which count in these play offs should the match end level.

Initially the Rojillos began the second half well but as time went on the home side soaked up the pressure with ease and gradually took control.

Mid may through the second half and Almansa found the goal which gives them breathing space. Winger Rubén Jurado received the ball on the edge of the box and his strike went in off the post putting the locals 2-0 up.

Lanzarote didn’t react well and late on the tie could have been dead and buried. Smelling blood Almansa finished with a flurry with sub Abellán forcing the Lanzarote keeper into a great save.

No doubt next Sunday the Lanzarote faithful will turn up in their droves because to get a result from this, the atmosphere would be electric. The odds are stacked in favour of Almansa. They are their leagues second strongest defence conceding just 25 goals in the 38 matches played. Should they score a goal then Lanzarote would need four due to the away goals rule.

Nevertheless never underestimate the Rojillos in these one match battles because Primera Liga sides such as Athletic Bilbao, Mallorca and Tenerife have all paid the ultimate price in doing so.

Prices will remain the same. 5 Euros Adults, 3 Euros pensioners and Children 15 and under are admitted free.

GOALS
1-0min 24 Acai (own goal)
2-0min 68 Rubén Jurado

Finally in the 33rd minute a 20 yard free kick beautifully curled around the wall and into the stationery keepers top right hand corner by Rubén Rodriguez leveled the score on the day and gave hope to the Rojillos. The Rojillos ended the half on a high but were just unable to score a second.

The Conejeros (locals) came out for the second half in determined fashion. Only four minutes had passed when Ayoze struck an absolute peach. The ball fell to the talented midfielder 30 yards out and after the second bounce he wrapped his foot around the ball and unleashed a rocket which was still rising at it flew into the top right hand corner.

Two more goals needed with 40 minutes remaining and suddenly the Rojillos dream of a remarkable comeback looked on. The crowd was urging to push forward and the Rojillos obliged.

Javi Morales, Toñito and Ayoze all came close but as the game progressed the Rojillos became more and more desperate and played the final five minutes with a deserted defence.The visitors had two wonder chances late on but failed on both attempts as the Rojillos fought with every lost drop of strength to pull something out of the bag. The Ref then confirmed the inevitable that Lanzarote will still be playing their football next season in Spain’s fourth league.

After following Spanish football, predominately U.D. Lanzarote over the past 14 years I am still learning about the rules and regulations regarding lower level football in Spain. I did not think for a moment that when the league came to an end it could take a further six weeks to achieve promotion especially if your side had won the league.

As it happened my family and I had booked our holiday to Jersey and then onto my wife’s homeland to visit the outlaws in Sweden, so if Lanzarote had reached the final I would have been left with a tricky decision. The Lord works in mysterious ways as the choice no longer exists, so from 18th June its Bon Voyage!

GOALS
0-1min 3 Vladi (own goal)
1-1min 33 Rubén Rodriguez
1-2min 49 Ayoze

Already two goals down from the first leg the Rojillos needed a good start to the game. The visitors were expecting an explosive opening to the match and from the moment the Refs whistle was blown they surprised Lanzarote by going all out attack. These tactics proved invaluable because after only three minutes the side from Albacete in Spain found that all important away goal.

The visitors looked pumped up for the match and gambled in the early stages knowing that one goal would just about kill off the home side and their support. After a flurry of activity the Lanzarote keeper Ruymán produced a great save from a strike on the edge of the box. Unfortunately for the Lanzarote number one the ball fell kindly to danger man Rubén Jurado on the by line, he then fed midfielder Santi who blasted in a strike destined for goal and as Lanzarote midfielder Vladi tried to block the effort he only succeeded in deflecting the shot into the opposite corner. 0-1 down after three minutes and a mountain to climb.

The Rojillos now needed four goals if they were to reach the final of the play off. Their heads did not drop and Lanzarote got on with their task of reducing the deficit.

In the 15th minute Jonathan Torres was put through and with the keeper committed, Torres chipped the ball over the advanced keeper but put too much weight on the lob and horribly messed up a great chance to get his side back into the game.

Winger Toñito was causing problems galore for the visitors supplying superb crosses and fantastic runs down either flank. Mid way through the half and good passing in the Lanzarote midfield stretched the defence of Almansa allowing Toñito a strike at goal from eight yards but a defender dived in at the final moment preventing a certain equalizer.