Welcome to Mercanica Lanzarote. This is the English site where you can find out when U.D. Lanzarote play and how to get to the home games, the latest updates and general information about Lanzarotes Premier football team in the fourth tier of Spanish football.
Latest News!
To contact Mercancia Lanzarote please call +34 928 84 33 32 or
+34 649 963 943 or send us an e-mail on info@mercancialanzarote.com
Official stall for U.D. Lanzarote products at Teguise market every Sunday (on the square near the public toilets). Here you can purchase home and away kits, scarves, caps, T-shirts etc.
AWAY FAR TOO LONG
8th August 2008
I must apologise for not updating the page for so long. I was on holiday for a few weeks in Sweden but more importantly my wife stayed on with her family and our children for another month. As my knowledge of computers is about as good as my understanding of the mating sequences of Ecuardian ants the website was not updated.
SURVIVAL OF U.D. LANZAROTE.
The club had been struggling to receive the finances promised to them by the Canarian and local institutions. The club president Victoriano Elvira stepped down as a protest and a week later his board of Directors followed suit. At a Socio (members meeting) at which I was present three Socios took hold of the reigns of the club and Union Deportiva Lanzarotes 38 year old history was balanced on thin ice.
A protest was organized on the 7th July in the main shopping street (Leon y Castillo) in Arrecife and around 400 fans including many British with banners and flags joined the protest.
A few days later the Gobierno de Canarias ( Canarian Govt) stepped in with a pledge of 290,000 Euros. This enabled the club to make the necessary payments to players and backroom staff from last season and arrived just in time so U.D. Lanzarote were not relegated a Division or two. Had this payment not of taken place Lanzarotes fabulous Cup history (click onto history which has been updated) would have vanished and Lanzarote would have had nothing to represent our Island in Spain’s third league of professional football.
PLAYERS GONE BUT CONEJEROS (locals) RETURN
During this fiasco many players had found alternative clubs including Swedish international Fredrik who has signed a two and a half year contract with Swedish first division side Hammarby.
Once again the Swede will be playing in front of crowds of thirty thousand and UEFA cup football. Fredrik did not want to leave but the offer was just too good to turn down. Fredrik has made Lanzarote his home and has no thoughts of selling his house and in a couple of years he hopes to be wearing the red and blue of Lanzarote once more.
On the first day back to training the squad was unrecognizable from last season with only 14 players present of which at least six were from the junior squad.
With the return of club President Victoriano Elvira and his board of Directors they quickly got to work and have managed to lure back to the island many of Lanzarotes finest players. Maciot, who famously bagged a hat trick against Tenerife who were then lying in 6th position in the Primera Liga. Vladi, who is a tiger in the midfield and his most cherished moment was when he leveled the scores against the Galacticos of Real Madrid. Zidane and Figo were pushed to their limits in a thriller of a match. Joining Maciot up front will be Jonathon Torres who has spent time with Las Palmas and ex Primera Liga side Tarragona. These two leading the front line is as good and probably better than any other pairing Lanzarote had ever had.
These players are in the late twenties and very early thirties will play alongside many of the junior squad who broke in to the first team last season such as the talented winger Oscar Martin. Many offers have come in for Oscar but with the club shrewd enough to tie him down with a 3 year contract these offers will have to be substantial. Other players remaining are Eliot and Adrian who will carry on in the defence with the experienced Argentine Dani Mayo. Lanzarote are also in talks about the possible return of Jotha who is the only Lanzarote person to wear the first team shirt of Real Madrid. Everyone in his home town of Tinajo will remember his debut a few seasons ago when he replaced Raul in a Primera Liga match.
NEW TEAM MANAGER
Union Deportiva Lanzarote will forever be in the debt of manager Paco Gutierrez. When he joined the club at Christmas two seasons ago Lanzarote were rooted to the bottom of the table. He comfortably led his troops to a 13th placed finish. His wish to return to Madrid was granted by the club without hesitation. The new man chosen to lead the club this season is 33 year old Luis Rueda. Originally from the Asturias, he managed Fuerteventura side Playa Jandia. His team beat Lanzarote both home and away last season and impressively led his side to a 9th placed finish.
The young manager and his experienced backroom staff have been quick at tying up deals with players and the team looks to have a settled squad for the forthcoming San Gines tournament held in Arrecife between the 14th-16th of August.
Barcelona B team and Segunda A (championship) sides Las Palmas and Eibar will make up the other three sides competing. Lanzarote have been drawn against Eibar and the winners of both games will play each other on the 16th as will the losers.
THE FUTURE
The most important matter over the summer was the survival of the club. With that now guaranteed the President and board of Directors have sensibly enticed former local players back to the island which has been met by joy from the supporters. Sometimes it can be best to step back a yard in order to gain two and with support set to increase this season, the future must be bright.
Its time to realize what the island has and that is a football club in the third tier of Spanish football for the nation who are European Champions. In time and with the correct approach and within the clubs financial boundaries top class footballers would love to live here and play for the island. Fredrik, who has played under Jose Mourinho at FC Porto and 12 times for the Swedish National side believes the Island offers more than it realizes. It’s difficult to doubt the 35 year old after spending half his life playing in top class football. The likes of Real Madrid B will once again be flying here with their stars of the future. One of their starlets who played last season, Parejo, has been signed up by Queens Park Rangers on a years loan. Parejo left the island on the back of a 3-1 defeat but certainly impressed and his future in the English Championship should be interesting.
To support your team, season tickets are available from the Club in Arrecife or from myself at the Clubs market stand in Teguise on Sundays. Alternatively ring me as I am always travelling around the island.
125 Euros Adult
50 Euros Pensioners and 12-17 year olds
Under 12 year olds entrance is free.
Any holidaymakers wishing to see a game a fixture list will be on this website within a week and entrance at the gate will be 12 Euros Adult and 5 Euros pensioners and 12-17 year olds. As ever children under 12 are free.
LONG LIVE SAROTE
PRE-SEASON SAN GINES TOURNAMENT
12th August 2008
Teams featured:
Barcelona B and 2 Segunda A (Championship) clubs, U.D. Las Palmas and Eibar.
Fixtures all at football stadium in Arrecife (Ciudad Deportiva Lanzarote).
Thurs 14th 8.30 pm
Lanzarote V Eibar
Friday 15th 8.30 pm
Las Palmas V Barcelona B
Sat 16th 6.30 pm
The losers of each match play for 3rd and 4th
Sat 16th 9 pm - The final
The winners of each match play for 1st and 2nd
5€ entrance per adult or buy at gate a ticket for all 3 evenings at 10€, children under 12 admitted free.
PRE - SEASON SAN GINES TOURNAMENT
14th August 2008
LANZAROTE 1 EIBAR 0
U.D. Lanzarote beat Segunda A (championship) side Eibar which has guaranteed them a place in the final against either Barcelona B or Las Palmas.
The visitors didn’t settle down and Lanzarote punished their opponents as early as the third minute. Some great work on the left flank with some quick passing by Maciot, Ivan Martin and Torres led to local boy Vladamir nodding home at the far post.
The Segunda A side who only just missed out on promotion to the Primera Liga two seasons ago began to demonstrate their class. A fiercely hit shot from 30 yards took a slight deflection off centre back Adrian and thundered off the upright for a corner. Only a few minutes later Oscar Martin cleared a goal bound header off the line and the visitors would have had good reason to be upset heading into the half time break a goal down.
Lanzarotes defence remained firm during the second period and limited Eibar to few chances whilst trying to catch their opponents on the break.
A shock win for Lanzarote should lead to a great evenings entertainment on Saturday night. The winners of Barcelona B versus Las Palmas tonight will play the Rojillos (reds) in the final.
BARCELONA B 1 LAS PALMAS 3
15th August 2008
Many people living in Lanzarote are from Las Palmas and Barcelona and they were treated to a wonderful evenings Entertainment. As it turned out the quality of Barcelona’s youth was beaten by the power and experience of a serious Las Palmas outfit.
Last season Las Palmas were rock bottom of the Segunda A (championship) at Christmas but with a change of manager they had a strong second half of the season and finished just above mid table.
Early on there were chances for either side and in a sweeping move our Canarian neighbours split open the Barcelona defence and the keeper was perfectly chipped only for the linesman to flag for a dubious offside decision.
Las Palmas brought on striker Saul in the 64th minute and he added another dimension to his team. In the 72nd minute he scored the opener from close range and with Las Palmas scoring a second with four minutes to go Barcelona looked dead and buried.
As the Barcelona fans made their way to the exit they should have realized that with a coach who has played in Barcelona’s midfield for many years Luis Enrique there was no way he was going to accept defeat lying down.
Barcelonas future stars
Las Palmas looking for promotion to the Primera Liga
In the 90th minute Barcelona scored through Abraham and in the 93rd minute sub Polaco only had the keeper to beat but blasted his shot inches past the far right hand post. From this Las Palmas broke and seconds later Saul scored his second and his teams third.
The play off for third and fourth takes place between Barcelona B v Eibar at 6.30pm Saturday and the final between Lanzarote and Las Palmas at 9pm the same evening.
Former Barcelona legend now Barcelona B team coach Luis Enrique
SAN GINES FINAL
LANZAROTE 1 LAS PALMAS 3
18th August 2008
Las Palmas deservedly won the San Gines tournament against a spirited young Lanzarote side.
Lanzarote took the lead just before the half hour. Eliot back in his island colours after half a season stint with Maritima volleyed in a corner from the right which left the keeper motionless.
The lead lasted 10 minutes as striker Saul blasted in a dipping volley which left new keeper Reguera with little chance. Just before the break local lad Toñito struck into the side netting from close range under pressure from defenders.
Las Palmas who are on the verge of signing Brazilian under 21 striker Amaral for one and a half million euro’s began to show their Segunda A class as they made the running.
Things began to get worse for Rojillos defender Eliot as he blundered a clearance which gifted David Gonzalez a goal.
With five minutes left on the clock Eliots night was complete when he nodded in an own goal from a cross from the left wing. A 1-3 defeat was not such disaster for Lanzarote as I believe Las Palmas has one thing in mind for this season and that is to get back where they believe they belong in Spain’s top flight football.
In the third and fourth position final it was the Segunda A side Eibar showing their power and experience over the youngsters of Barcelona B team. With the score being 3-0 at the break Luis Enriques side could offer nothing of resistance in the second period and tumbled to a 5-0 loss.
Rojillos v Amarillos (The reds against the yellows)
OFFICIAL PRESENTATION OF TEAM U.D. LANZAROTE COMPETING IN THE SEGUNDA DIVISION B (league 1)
A MESSAGE FROM THE CLUB PRESIDENT
Victoriano Elvira Guillén
GREETINGS
To members, season ticket holders and supporters of Union Deportiva Lanzarote as well as all who support sport.
We would like to invite you all to the presentation of our first team squad competing in the National Segunda B league (league 1) on Wednesday 27th August 2008 at 8pm in our home football stadium in Arrecife (Ciudad Deportiva Lanzarote).
During the presentation we will have the islands finest carnival drummer band and towards the end of the evening we invite you to meet our players and ask questions and take photos.
We would be delighted with your presence.
Entrance is free.
24th August 2008
The Rojillos (reds) began the game on the attack and in the opening 20 minutes four very good chances were not executed. A Dani Mayo header was inches away from the far past and Lanzarote old boys Maciot and Jonathon Torres were both guilty of a rush of blood in front of goal.
The Gran Canarian side slowly found their feet only to find Lanzarote´s number one in fine form. Keeper Marino, now in his 12th season with the Rojillos eased his defenders nerves with a tip over the bar from a header and a diving save from a 25 yard effort.
With the game scoreless at the interval, Lanzarote´s new Mister (gaffer) Luis Rueda pushed Maciot deep into enemy territory and after 10 minutes of constant pressure winger Oscar Martin beat his defender on the right flank and blasted the ball low and hard from the byline and found fellow Conejero (local) Maciot on the far post who duly slotted home.
Santa Brigida now began to make a game of it but with Centre back and man of the match Dani Mayo stamping out all attacks the Gran Canarian side returned home pointless. The 35 year old Argentine who has played six seasons in top flight Argentine football against the likes of Boca Juniors, River Plate showed his worth with a professional performance and guided this young Lanzarote side to its first victory of the season.
LANZAROTE 1 VILLA SANTA BRIGIDA 0
31st August 2008
After a summer littered with financial problems a 1-0 home win on the opening day of the season was greeted with open arms.
Maciot linking up with Oscar Martín for the decisive goal.
A solid home performance was just what was needed on the opening game and with all the financial pressure now resolved the Rojillos can look forward to their 8th consecutive season in the third tier of Spanish football.
The backroom staff celebrating (right to left) Piti (physio), Antonio Zoido (doctor), Luis Rueda (manager), Maikel (trainer) and far left new signing Yeray getting a grip on his debut.
The Madrid based side which included Anibal Zurdo who was Lanzarote´s top scorer last season could not break the deadlock in the opening 45 minutes and seemed to run out of ideas in the second period.
The Rojillos (reds) manager Luis Rueda began the game with an unchanged line up from the opening day win against Villa Santa Brigida.
Lanzarote played with Jonathon Torres alone up front and saw very little possession of the ball in the opening 45 minutes. Leganés were attacking on either flank but the Rojillos defence stood firm and posed little worry for Lanzarote´s number one Marino.
The best opportunity of the first half surprisingly fell for Lanzarote when a short pass from central midfielder Vladi was laid on perfectly for Torres who blasted the ball just over the bar.
Lanzarote dramatically improved in the second half and after only a few minutes played and with the introduction of Ciani and the super fast Colombian Niche, Lanzarote gathered momentum and held the majority of possession.
Leganés, in a game which they had totally dominated began to look nervous and in the 74th minute Niche fought and won the ball off a defender and centered for Torres whose goal bound shot was nicked off a defenders shin and away for a corner. Moments later a cross from Rubén Rodriguez was headed by the unlucky Torres into the hands of the Madrid keeper Raúl Moreno.
In added time a minor scuffle broke out in the Leganés box which saw Torres see red from the referee but his partner in crime saw only yellow. With four minutes remaining the 10 men of Lanzarote held on and earnt a good point against one of the favourites for promotion.
Next week Lanzarote play at home against the B side of Atlético Madrid. After two games the Primera Liga sides B team are pointless whilst Lanzarote have four points and have not conceded. Last season this fixture finished 3-3
LEGANES 0 LANZAROTE 0
7th September 2008
Unión Deportiva Lanzarote gained a point in their first away fixture of the Season.
Right back Adrián helping his team to two clean defensive sheets in the two opening fixtures.
LANZAROTE 1 ATLETICO MADRID B 1
14th September 2008
Lanzarote rescued a point with six minutes to spare against the youngsters of Atlético Madrid’s B team.
Todays starting eleven
The side from Madrid was intent on gaining their first points of the season on a hot Sunday morning in the Arrecife stadium. The fast and accurate passing from the superstars of the future caught the Rojillos (reds) off guard and if it was not for captain Dani Mayo Lanzarote could have easily been two down in the opening 15 minutes.
After the initial onslaught the Conejeros (locals) found their feet and began to compete in the midfield, though the only threat that came from the home team was in stoppage time in the first half when a blistering shot from Lanzarote´s young starlet Oscar Martin was superbly saved by keeper De Gea.
Many of Lanzarote´s fans were dressed in local costume and had been celebrating through the night in the islands biggest fiesta of “Our lady of sorrows” and it became apparent in the opening 10 minutes of the second half that a goal was needed to keep their eyes from closing.
A cross into the box from the right wing for the visitors seemed to be heading high over and away for safety but as centre back Adrián chased the ball his toe was judged by the referee to clip the heal of Atlético´s striker Ruben Ramos and his theatrical dive convinced the ref to award a spot kick. The striker picked himself up from the artificial surface and buried the ball into the top left corner with Rojillos keeper Marino just getting a finger on the ball but not enough to prevent the visitors taking the lead.
Lanzarote woke up and with 35 minutes left on the clock began to test Atlético´s back four. Rojillos manager Luis Rueda brought on striker Toñito and the classy midfielder Yeray for Ciani and Niche and the Conejeros were gunning for goal.
In the 63rd minute a cross from Iván Martin was met by the impressive Raul Garcia and only a fine save from the Atlético keeper prevented Lanzarote from leveling the match.
Ten minutes on and Rojillos striker Maciot crossed in towards the near post from the right wing, the ball was nodded on from Oscar Martin and sub Toñito with the goal at his mercy fluffed his effort into the side netting.
With the game destined for defeat for the Conejeros , Toñito received a pass and with his back to goal and on the edge of the box fell like a sack of spuds. The referee pointed to the spot and Yeray stepped up and calmly hit the ball into the bottom left hand corner leaving his team six minutes to claim victory.
In the closing minutes Oscar Martin had a shout for a penalty when he went down on the edge of the box but the ref had already shown Lanzarote compassion by awarding one penalty and was not going to gift another.
With only three games played Lanzarote remain unbeaten and with their five points they are in 8th position. Next week Lanzarote travel to Gran Canaria and play the B team of Las Palmas.
LAS PALMAS B 2 LANZAROTE 0
21st September 2008
Unión Deportiva Lanzarote tasted their first defeat of the Season in Gran Canaria in a game where the away team should have wrapped up the points in the opening 45 minutes.
As early as the 5th minute good work from Raúl Garcia winning the ball from inside his opponent’s area but before he could unleash a strike a defender slid in and only conceded a corner. A few minutes on and a shot from Yeray was saved well from Las Palmas keeper Galan.
In the 15th minute Las Palmas had their first and only chance of the opening half which produced a fine save from Lanzarote´s number one.
On the half hour a block and four minutes later a one handed save from the inspired Las Palmas keeper was the only reason Lanzarote were not in front at the interval.
Seconds after the restart with the Rojillos defence static a long ball was whipped in from the right wing and Amarillos (yellows) striker Raúl Barcos slotted home. With football not recognizing justice Lanzarote seemed to feel sorry for themselves and couldn’t control the ball let alone keep possession for the following 20 minutes.
In the 73rd minute a header from Dani Mayo rebounded off a defenders back and ran straight for Maciot who for his third time in an afternoons work was denied by the Amarillos keeper. With Lanzarote short of strikers with the suspension of Jonathan Torres and the injured Oscar Martin scoring was always going to be a problem.
In the final 15 minutes Lanzarote Mister (gaffer) Luis Rueda pushed up a defender leaving only three at the back and in the final minute Rojillos midfielder Vicky lost the ball 25 yards from his own goal by substitute Jorge Brazales who cleanly shot past Keeper Marino giving his side a 2-0 victory.
Reds manager Luis Rueda doesn’t have much time to rectify these mistakes as his team play Wednesday evening versus Lorquí but he will be pleased with the return of Torres following his two game suspension and Oscar Martin´s chances are rated at 50/50.
Maciot, finding it frustrating and sometimes lonely leading Lanzarote´s front line.
In the opening 10 minutes Lanzarote had the greater opportunities but with only two goals in first five matches they yet again failed to convert.
Lorquí then used the artificial surface to their advantage by playing some beautiful fast and accurate football whist Lanzarote were hoofing the ball from defence up to the sole attacker Jonathon Torres.
Lorquí´s right winger Ortega was causing havoc down the Rojillo´s left flank and goalkeeper Marino had to be on his guard the full 90 minutes. Lanzarote´s number one was in fine form with acrobatic saves and clean handling and was the sole Lanzarote player to be able to leave the field with his head raised high.
It was hard to tell if Lanzarote were having one of those days or if the side from the Asturias were playing beyond themselves.
The breakthrough came in the 74th minute with a cross from the right wing and Ortega powerfully headed home. A couple of minutes later the visitors almost went 2-0 up but a great stop from Marino on a one on one with sub Gondras kept his side in the game with a slim hope.
To their credit Lanzarote fought till the end but the superior team came out victorious.
On Saturday Lanzarote travel to Madrid at 2.30pm then a connecting flight to Alicante arriving at 9.15pm followed by a 125 kilometer bus journey. The following day they will face league leaders Cartagena.
LANZAROTE 0 LORQUÍ 1
25th September 2008
Lanzarote lost their second consecutive match in the space of five days against a great passing side from Murcía.
33 year old Lanzarote manager Luis Rueda already under pressure after two defeats on the bounce. Next up is two away games of which the first is league leaders Cartagena.
This goal was worth its weight in gold restoring confidence into a side that had lost their last two games. For the following 20 minutes Lanzarote took a grip of the game and looked the more likely to add to the scoreboard.
In the 40th minute Cartagena´s striker Mena robbed the ball off the Lanzarote defence but fortunately for the Rojillos his weak shot went straight into the hands of Lanzarote keeper Reguero and Lanzarote went into the break one goal to the good.
Early in the second half Cartagena began to demonstrate why they are unbeaten and leading the division. In the 52nd minute Mena headed powerfully only for Reguero to save brilliantly and scramble the ball away to safety.
On the hour mark came the equalizer following a sweeping move sub Juan Pablo buried the ball past Keeper Reguero at his near post.
For the final half hour Lanzarote´s defence gritted their teeth and held on for a morale boosting point. Cartagena slip to second as Real Madrid’s B team claim top spot after a convincing 4-1 home win against Aguilas.
Next week Lanzarote face their second consecutive away game versus the much fancied Universidad in Gran Canaria.
CARTAGENA 1 LANZAROTE 1
28th September 2008
U.D. Lanzarote gained a credible point against league leaders Cartagena. After a seven hour delay at Lanzarote airport followed by a connecting flight from Madrid to Alicante delayed till the morning and finishing off with a 125 km bus ride was not the ideal match preparation Rojillos manager Luis Rueda had in mind.
Not only had the Lanzarote players had to deal with the loss of sleep but in the 13th minute captain Dani Mayo limped off injured. With a little reorganizing with Central midfielder Raúl García dropping into the heart of defence and with the introduction of the Ex Real Madrid star Jotha on his debut things began to look brighter.
With chances going amiss from both teams in the opening 20 minutes it was Lanzarote who took a surprise lead. After a foul on the edge of the area on Jonathon Torres, Ciani stepped up and blasted the ball which rattled the woodwork, though the ball settled neatly into the back of the net.
Lanzarote striker Ciani (shown here with his children) sending the Rojillos 1-0 in front from a classic free kick.
UNIVERSIDAD 1 LANZAROTE 0
5th October 2008
U.D. Lanzarote have only picked up a single point in their last three games and this run of bad form has slipped the Rojillos into the drop zone.
Lanzarote´s Mister (gaffer) Luis Rueda clear objective for this game was to not allow his opposition to score. Both teams played negative boring football for the first 45 minutes and a six hour chess match would have been far more interesting to watch.
Ten minutes into the second half and the goal in which the game had been crying out for finally came. Universidad´s winger Michel swung in a cross from the right wing and midfielder Pollo met the ball on the full and neatly slotted home.
With Lanzarote´s game plan in tatters the game began to open up and Lanzarote dominated the rest of the match but with only three goals scored in the opening seven matches and against a defence that had only conceded three goals it was always going to be an uphill battle.
The best opportunity for the Rojillos fell for local boy Vladi but his goal bound effort was deflected away for a corner.
With five minutes left on the clock the Rojillos were thrown a lifeline when after an incident with Lanzarote´s left back Cristian two of Universidad´s players were shown red and their side was reduced to nine players. Lanzarote pressured but were lacking ideas in the final third of the pitch. The referee added seven minutes injury time to the annoyance of the home fans but in reality the man in black could of added 70 minutes and the result would have been the same.
After two away games on the bounce Lanzarote are at home next Sunday and will face fellow strugglers from Madrid, Navalcarnero.
Vladamir (Vladi) coming closest to drawing his side level.
LANZAROTE 0 NAVALCARNERO 2
12th October 2008
Unión Deportiva Lanzarote suffered another home defeat and with only one point gained in their last five matches the Rojillos have slipped from 8th position down to second from bottom.
Manager Luis Rueda played an attacking formation and in only the fourth minute a short pass from Maciot was blasted just wide from Yeray. Only a minute later and Yeray centered a cross from the right flank and the young winger Oscar Martin tried a delightful back heel but goalkeeper Raul was alert to the danger and saved with his foot.
Up until the half hour Lanzarote were totally in control but with only three goals scored in eight games they were soon to be punished for poor finishing. Ciani, who is more accustomed to a midfield attacking role was drafted in at right back and never looked comfortable.
In the 30th minute Ciani was ripped apart by his opponents left winger Gonzalo who raced to the byline and neatly picked out his forward Rayco. He drilled the ball in for a certain goal but Lanzarote keeper Reguero superbly saved with his feet. The Rojillos believed they had been given a reprieve but the ball was instantly crossed in from the right for Gonzalo but with Ciani´s eyes solely on the ball he literally floored the winger and the ref had his easiest decision of the day awarding the Madrid side a penalty kick.
Defender Blanco stepped up and placed the ball low to the right sending Reguero in the opposite direction. This was a real slap in the face for the under pressure manager Luis Rueda though his side were performing well but just lacking the all important killer touch.
Lanzarote still pressed and if the Rojillos are going to survive another season in this division their young starlet Oscar Martin will have to be in his best form. As luck would have it the 19 year old shone and in the 37th minute he fought and won the ball on the right flank and crossed in an inch perfect pass to his striker Maciot. The striker controlled well and with only the keeper to beat he blasted high over.
After the break the Madrid side looked intent on hanging onto their one goal advantage by playing cautiously and not committing men forward. However with Lanzarote implying constant pressure a breakthrough looked imminent. In the 75th minute Oscar Martin beat his defender and crossed low, sub Niche got a toe on the ball and thought he had leveled for his team only for the linesman to raise his flag for a dubious offside decision. Maciot voiced his opinion to the ref and was rewarded with a red card
The game ended as a contest in the 79th minute with a slick counter attack leaving four against two. Clever passing between Navalcarnero´s players left the two Lanzarote defenders and the goalkeeper scrambling around the floor whilst striker Rayco polished off the move with a close range finish.
Lanzarote were then reduced to nine men when Toñito raised his hands to his opponent who hit the canvas quicker than Frank Bruno.
Lanzarote had once again played well but with nobody knowing how to put the ball in the back of the net it could be a long and painful season. To make matters worse Oscar Martin was left on the deck and play was held up for several minutes and he now looks a doubt for the vital match in Fuerteventura next week against the only side below Lanzarote in the league, Playas Jandia.
Lanzarote´s wonderboy Oscar Martin floored with minutes to go and a doubt for next weeks game.
PLAYAS JANDIA 0 LANZAROTE 1
19th October 2008
A goal four minutes from time gives Lanzarote their first victory in eight games and lifts the Rojillos out of the relegation zone.
Both sides began the game knowing that defeat would leave them bottom of the division and in the opening minutes nerves and errors were apparent.
The game was settled minutes from time when ex Lanzarote player Checa fouled inside the area and midfielder Yeray Henandez stepped up and converted giving the Rojillos only their second win this season.
Lanzarote have now gathered nine points in their opening nine games and have moved up to 15th in the table. Next Sunday Lanzarote face fellow strugglers Vecindario at home in Arrecife.
Yeray Hernandez with the priceless goal sending the Rojillos out of relegation territory.
As always,Lanzarote began the game on the attack only to be hit with a double sucker punch from the Gran Canarian side. A goal eight minutes into each half was enough for an organized Vecindario side to claim all three points.
The opening minutes Lanzarote pounded their opponents with corner after corner and totally dominated play only to come across the same problem in every game this season and that is to apply the finish. In the eighth minute Vecindario won a corner and as the ball was launched in striker Alex Cruz rose whilst defenders around him remained with both feet firmly on the astro turf he headed wide of keeper Marino to give his side the advantage.
In the 13th minute a corner from Lanzarote´s striker Maciot was headed over by his strike partner Jonathon Torres. The Rojillos were in full control of the game but soon ran out of ideas and with nerves showing they long balled everything into their opponents half which was dealt with without any major problems by the Vecindario defence.
The second half was a carbon copy of the first with Lanzarote firing on all cylinders only for the visitors to extend their lead from an unchallenged strike by Dorta in the area.
Lanzarote carried on their bombing raid but in the 79th minute almost fell another goal behind when sub Yeyo found himself one on one with the keeper but shot inches wide of the left hand post.
The breakthrough from the Rojillos finally came as Oscar Martin went on a great run through the middle beating three players then chipped a delightful pass to Maciot who shot towards goal and defender Alex could do nothing but put the ball into his own net.
Two minutes into injury time and Maciot launched in another corner and the ball fell to Adrían who typically blasted the ball towards the midday sun as only centre backs can do.
Lanzarote now find themselves fourth from bottom occupying the last automatic relegation position.
LANZAROTE 1 VECINDARIO 2
27th October 2008
U.D. Lanzarote´s third successive home defeat has dropped the Rojillos (reds) back into relegation territory.
Striker Jonathan Torres still waiting for his first goal this season.
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Rojillos manager Luis Rueda made a few brave tactical changes by leaving normal automatic starters, striker Maciot and midfielder Vladamir on the bench and pushing center back Adrían into a central midfield position.
Lanzarote looked confident in the opening exchanges and from a corner Adrían headed just over followed by ex Real Madrid midfielder Jotha forcing a good save from the home keeper.
Just before the half hour Sangonera took the lead following a clearance from their own keeper deep into the opposing half and first to get a foot on the ball was striker Elías who guided the ball past Lanzarote keeper Reguero.
This shattered the confidence of an already deflated Lanzarote team who had looked the superior team up until the half hour. Fortunately for the Rojillos the defence stood firm and held out for the final 15 minutes of the half.
During most of the second half Lanzarote changed tactics by being prepared to allow their opponents to dominate possession and refused to chase the game. With just a single goal between the two sides an opportunity was sure to come their way.
In the 82nd minute a terrible challenge on Jonathon Torres led to local defender Sergio receiving a straight red card giving Lanzarote the green light for a full on onslaught. Lanzarote came close on a couple of occasions but following a corner in the 89th minute the ball fell kindly for Torres who made no mistake blasting the ball home.
Moments later and Torres had a great chance to win the game but his shot was hurried and went clear of the bar with sub Maciot screaming for the ball to be squared for an easy tap in.
This was a good tactical match for under fire Rojillos manager Luis Rueda and justly rewarded with a good away point. Lanzarote still remain in the relegation zone but have a great chance next week to pull themselves out of this position with a home game against Alfaro who are only two places above the islanders.
SANGONERA ATLÉTICO 1 LANZAROTE 1
2nd November 2008
A last minute leveler from striker Jonathon Torres gives the Rojillos a well deserved point against fifth placed side Sangonera from Murcia.
The wait is over. Striker Jonathon Torres opens his account and brings home a vital point for the Rojillos.
As has been the season thus far, Lanzarote began the game on the attack and with two great opportunities going amiss from Yeray and Oscar Martin in the opening 45 minutes, the fans were well aware of how well their side normally gets punished with a defeat.
With the game scoreless at the break Lanzarote must have changed their footwear and put their scoring boots on. After only four minutes a superb run down the left flank from the inspired Yeray led to a tap in for Oscar Martin.
On the hour mark and with Lanzarote on the offensive looking for the safety of a second goal Alfaro broke and were whiskers away from a leveler. With good fortune looking down on the Conejeros (locals) from the keeper’s clearance Ciani weighted an inch perfect pass and Maciot rose and from seven yards headed into the top left corner leaving the keeper motionless.
The Rojillos were now in complete control with Vladi acting as the governor in the centre of the park and with Yeray orchestrating most of Lanzarote´s positive moves the Rojillos looked odds on to add to their tally.
In the 71st minute a push on Raúl Garcia following a corner from Yeray led to a penalty. Jonathon Torres buried the ball with ease and it was 3-0 for the Rojillos.
Five minutes later and a poor clearance from Alfaro´s keeper rebounded off sub Niche and the Colombian was gifted Lanzarote´s fourth with a simple tap in.
A double wondersave from the visitors keeper prevented Torres from point blank range and a thunderous Maciot strike was some how kept out with an outstretched arm as Lanzarote were still trying to add to the score.
Towering Argentine centre back Dani Mayo who has also decided to look elsewhere for employment was subbed with seconds to go and received a standing ovation.
CRISIS DIAGNOSED AS CRITICAL FOR U.D. LANZAROTE
9th November 2008
Midweek the president of U.D. Lanzarote Victoriano Elvira notified his players that following the withdrawl of a major sponsor, the club could only guarantee the wages to the players for only two months out of their ten month contract. He has allowed any player wishing to terminate their contract to do so.
The club can only guarantee 30 per cent of their wage and as many of the players are on average wages, roughly 1500 Euros per month. A salary of 450 Euros is unable to accommodate a man and his family. The first but certainly not the last to leave is Iván Martín who has agreed terms with a third division club in La Palma.
Nightmares of late last season when the club was within days of disappearing have once again surfaced only a little after two months into the season. Unión Deportiva Lanzarote´s existence is hanging by a thread and if help is not at hand the fantastic cup history will remain as only a memory. (click onto history)
LANZAROTE 4 ALFARO 0
9th November 2008
After a first minute sit down protest from the players of Unión Deportiva Lanzarote over the financial issues of the club which was greeted with a standing ovation from the fans, the team put on their finest performance of the season with a four nil drubbing of the team from Zaragoza. This emphatic win has pushed the Rojillos out of the relegation zone and up to 13th in the table.
Oscar Vladamir (Vladi) governing the midfield for the Rojillos.
Next week whatever is left of Lanzarote´s squad will travel to Murcia to face in form Real Murcia B.
A sad day for Dani Mayo and anyone supporting U.D. Lanzarote as he hands over the captaincy in probably his last game due to the financial problems of the club.
Representing the island of Lanzarote and asked to take a 70% wage cut. The players sit down in protest for the first minute then overpower the opposition.
In the opening 45 minutes Lanzarote gave the fourth placed side a good run for their money and almost took the lead through Yeray who struck the woodwork and the away side were enjoying much of the possession but failing to break down the home defence.
Many of Lanzarote´s defeats this season have been in the same fashion with all out offensive but failing in the last third. On most occasions the Rojillos seem to huff and puff but their opponents blow the house down.
In the 19th minute of the second half striker Kike opened the scoring for the home side with a header and four minutes later defender Juachi ensured the win with a long range effort.
With this defeat Lanzarote drop three places to 16th and occupy the dreaded play off place with the third division sides. Next Sunday Lorca, also from Murcia will be travelling to Lanzarote looking to improve on their mid table position.
REAL MURCIA B 2 LANZAROTE 0
16th November 2008
Five minutes of the Rojillos letting down their guard midway through the second half and Murcia capitalized with two goals and sealed all three points.
Before the start of the day Lanzarote were reduced to a squad of 15 players with the sad news of the sudden death of local lad Toñito´s father. The 23 year old immediately made the long 12 hour journey back home to be with his family.
Toñito travels home following the death of his father.
Sunday Teguise Market
The players showed great professionalism and performances from local boys Maciot, Vladi and Oscar Martin were left unrewarded.
In the opening half great work from the Rojillos midfield released Ciani who coolly slotted the ball past Lorca’s keeper only for the linesman to wave his little yellow flag for offside. Chances from Maciot and Niche were not converted and Oscar Martin shot into the side netting.
The second half didn’t alter much with Lanzarote pressing their opponents from Murcia desperately seeking the opening goal. Only two minutes after the restart and Lorca´s defence scrambled the ball clear off the line and Lanzarote were denied yet again.
In the 66th minute a second yellow card for Lorca´s striker Rúben gave the Rojillos a great chance to capitalize. With the home side making their opponents work with slick passing and utilizing the whole pitch it looked as though the breakthrough would come.
Those hopes were dashed 15 minutes from time following a deep cross, sub Jonan nodded a fine header which flew back off the underside of the bar but the referee unfairly awarded a spot kick. Winger Manu Bustos who had been Lorca´s best player stepped up and sent Lanzarote´s keeper Reguero the wrong way giving his side the goal advantage.
LANZAROTE 0 LORCA 1
23rd November 2008
These are not good times for Unión Deportiva Lanzarote with the manager Luis Rueda leaving last Tuesday and even the Trainer Maikel Santana handing in his notice but will remain at the club for the time being.
Caretaker Manager Maikel Santana
Lanzarote looked devastated and it took another five minutes to regain their composure. Again the red and blue colours of the island pinned their opponents down and in the final minute a goal bound header from Raúl was clearly handled but the official was unable to see clearly and therefore could not award the correct decision.
After the final whistle the crowd applauded the home side for their commitment and with eight of the players left on the pitch at the end being Conejeros (locals) it seems if there is a way out of this mess the only way to go is to sign locals.
The situation is fragile. No manager or trainer and the majority of the squad wishing to leave, Lanzarote must somehow hold on till the final game before Christmas on the 21st of December versus Fuerteventura. Only then can Lanzarote sign players to keep the team alive whilst an avalanche of players will be pursuing the careers elsewhere.
The Spanish football federation doesn’t make it any easier for the players as none of Lanzarote´s squad will be able to play in the same group as U.D. Lanzarote for the remainder of the season. Players will have to move further from home to find employment through no fault of their own.
If matters could get worse, they did, with three of the four teams below Lanzarote in the league winning leaving the Rojillos two points from the drop zone.
Providing Lanzarote can get a team together for next week they will make the long journey to Murcia to face mid table side Aguilas.
Lanzarote keeper Reguero beaten from the penalty spot
As seems to be always, Lanzarote opened the game on the offensive and were looking extremely dangerous with each attack. Águilas, themselves weren’t holding back and threatened on the counter attack. With both sides playing flowing open football, goals were sure to come.
The opener came in the 18th minute with a great run through the centre by Toñito and with an inch perfect pass set up the Colombian Niche who rifled home from the edge of the box.
Águilas quickly hit back and began to keep the ball but were limited to long range efforts which didn’t test the Rojillos keeper Reguero.
On the half hour following intense pressure from the home side a fine save from Reguero led to a corner. As the ball was flown in striker Javi Selas leveled the scores for the home side.
The Rojillos then began to stamp their authority on the game and only five minutes after conceding, a short corner from Maciot to Rúben Rodriguez was floated over to the far post where Raúl Garcia rose unchallenged and nodded the islanders back in front.
Four minutes later and it was 1-3. A long kick from Reguero found Maciot and with just the Águilas keeper José Juan to beat the Lanzarote born player won the dual sending his side into the break with a comfortable lead.
After the break the home side held most of the possession but with Lanzarote not allowing the opposition any time on the ball and with a solid defence the Murcian side did not look like there was a way back into the game for them.
13 minutes from time and defender Angel Gil guaranteed the islanders all three points with a tap in from close range. He dedicated his goal to physical trainer Maikel Santana who sat for the last time on the Rojillo bench. The very popular trainer has decided to call it a day in light of all the financial problems of U.D. Lanzarote.
Deep into stoppage time and with Vladi trying to intercept a cross he guided the ball into his own goal and gave the home side a late consolation.
With these three points and with results around the bottom clubs very favourable for Lanzarote they have now moved five points clear of instant relegation but still only a point clear of Atlético Madrid’s B team who currently occupy the dreaded play off relegation spot.
With local man Carmelo Hernández now in charge it has added a little bit of stability. There is no doubt this is going to be a tough season with a vast amount of players leaving the club in January. Many locals have already accepted the possibility of relegation rather than the alternative which is for the club to disappear.
Carmelo Hernández was previously manager of Yaiza which plays their football in Regional Prefente (2 divisions below Lanzarote). He has a difficult task ahead of him but also what a great opportunity to apply his tactics against the likes of Real Madrid’s B team. With U.D Lanzarote´s economic problems, local players are needed and with the quality shown against Águilas with nine of the eleven remaining on the pitch from the island, another option has opened up for local fans and that is for U.D. Lanzarote to survive in the Segunda B (league 1). Good luck Carmelo.
AGUILAS 2 LANZAROTE 4
30th November 2008
After a marathon 12 hour journey to Murcia, Unión Deportiva Lanzarote put on a superb display dominating their opponents and recording their biggest away win in eight years of Segunda B (league 1) football.
New Mister Rojillo (reds gaffer) Carmelo Hernández could only watch from the stands this week but must have been impressed with the spirit shown by his team.
Angel Gil wrapping up the points with Lanzarote´s fourth goal
(left) Club president Victorian Elvira (right) New Mister Rojillo (reds gaffer) Carmelo Hernández
On the half hour following a neat one touch triangular move between Niche and Toñito, the Colombian, Niche, lashed a shot from the edge of the box but unfortunately for him the ball swerved narrowly past the upright.
Even though the deadlock had not been broken at the interval the supporters seemed content with the quality of football being played. This was helped by good refereeing from the official by always playing the advantage and not being fooled by play acting from both teams.
The following 45 minutes were played at a good pace but the only cheer came in the 75th minute when Niche thought that he had opened the scoring but the linesman correctly waved his flag for offside.
Lanzarote slip one position down to 16th and are five points off automatic relegation though they occupy the play off position for relegation.
Next week the Rojillos face a difficult away game in the mainland against Real Madrid´s B side. Real lost their top spot position with a 1-0 defeat to new league leaders Cartagena and will be looking for a positive result. Not many players who wear the white shirt of Real Madrid taste defeat in consecutive weeks but Lanzarote have had some good form away from home especially against the top sides.
Sadly Lanzarote´s goalkeeper and the clubs longest serving player Marino has decided to leave the club due to the clubs financial problems. When Marino joined the club 12 years ago Lanzarote were a third division outfit. He has gone through promotion and relegation as well as an incredible Copa Del Rey (F.A.Cup) run with the club.
He started his career with Tenerife and even had a season long stint in Scotland with Motherwell though wasn’t to keen on the Scottish climate. Marino, his wife and two children will now be heading home to Tenerife.
LANZAROTE 0 ALCORCON 0
7th December 2008
In a game which was neither boring or entertaining Lanzarote and the Madrid side shared the points in Lanzarote´s new manager Carmelo Henández first official game in charge.
(Left) Lanzarote´s new manager Carmelo Hernández first game in charge.
(Right) Colombian Niche causing problems for the Madrid defence.
Both sides went out looking to claim all three points with the away side threatening on the counter attack as the Rojillos held the majority of possession.
One of the few good opportunities in the game came in the 10th minute. A cross swung in from the right by Captain Vladi was met by a powerful header from Torres only for Keeper Raúl to make a good save low to his left.
Lanzarote were intent from the start that Real were not going to be given any time on the ball and chased and harrowed their opponents the full 90 plus minutes.
As early as the third minute on the counter attack Oscar Martin led the charge and released Maciot on the left wing only to be given the ball back and the 19 year old struck a firm shot on the edge of the area which was well saved by the Madrid keeper Adán.
Real then bounced back and gradually dictated play though the Rojillo defence maintained its discipline and kept the leagues top scorers at bay. In the 32nd minute Ex Real Madrid player Jotha blasted a free kick inches over the bar and the scores remained level leading into the break.
The second half couldn’t have started better for Lanzarote as they pushed forward pinning their opponents into their final third. Twelve minutes from the restart and sub Niche who had only been on the park a few minutes found the ball at his feet following a deflection and placed the ball wide of the keeper and into the net.
With this goal the confidence of the side became apparent and the Rojillos began to look comfortable with this most narrow of advantages.
In the 82nd minute all changed as stand in centre back Raúl Garcia received his second yellow card and Lanzarote were forced to play the remainder of the game with ten players.
The home side fired shots in left, right and centre but with Lanzarote´s keeper Reguero in tremendous form they could not find a way through. The Rojillos clung on and inflicted the first home defeat on Real Madrid’s B side whilst gathering three vital points in their second consecutive away win.
The Rojillos have moved up to 14th and are now eight points away from automatic relegation though still two points off from a play off to keep themselves in this division.
Next week Lanzarote have the opportunity to avenge for last seasons two defeats when they take on deadly rivals Fuerteventura. The player’s attitude has been first class after being forced to take a seventy per cent wage cut and with eight of the team local players their fight to save their club from disappearing is taking hold.
REAL MADRID B 0 LANZAROTE 1
14th December 2008
Who can predict football? Unión Deportiva Lanzarote struggling against relegation with a depleted squad against the might of Real Madrids B team.
Sub Niche striking home for three priceless points
In the 25th and 42nd minute Lanzarote keeper once again proved his worth with a fine save from a header from centre back Richard and an outstretched hand preventing striker Memo with a leveler.
Just before the break a defence splitting pass from Maciot on the left wing found Toñito and from only eight yards and with just the keeper to beat the young striker fired wide.
12 minutes after the restart and a long kick out from Reguero bounced once and Toñito outpaced the defence and struck the ball sweetly on the half volley directly into the top left hand corner sending his side 2-0 up. Toñito then pointed to the sky wishing to celebrate with his father who had suddenly died a fortnight ago.
Two minutes later and Toñito doubled his tally for the day. A mistake from a misjudged back pass sealed the fate for luckless Fuerteventura. Toñito neatly chipped the keeper who had been left stranded by his defender. With Lanzarote now three goals to the good and playing with confidence, it was all about how many goals were they going to win by. In the 74th minute and with man of the match Toñito racing past the left back only to be stopped in his tracks by the defender pulling back his shirt, the Ref awarded a clear penalty. Torres stepped up and sent the keeper the wrong way rifling his kick into the top left corner and Lanzarote were sitting comfortable at 4-0.
Deep into injury time and with the Lanzarote team thinking about the Christmas holidays Fuerteventura striker Memo scored against Lanzarote for his third consecutive game but this was to be a late consolation for the ferry home to Fuerteventura.
With the National Spanish Christmas break Lanzarote will find themselves in the New Year eight points away from automatic relegation and also the same amount of points from a play off position.
Six other players are leaving the club as the meltdown begins. Reguero, Raúl Garcia, Vicki, Yeray, Niche and Dani Paláez have followed Marino, Dani Mayo, Ciani and Ivan Martin who have already reluctantly joined the mass exodus.
Ten of the eleven players starting the game against Fuerteventura were local lads. Manager Carmelo Hernández will have a busy Christmas. At least another ten local players will have a dream opportunity to play in Spain’s third league of professional football.
Lanzarote´s first game of the New Year is away to Mérida on the 4th January and this will complete the first round of games.
Thanks so much to all of you who have taken the time to email me. I enjoy receiving all your posts and look forward to much of the same next year.
Have a wonderful Christmas and an exciting and healthy New Year.
From,
Ian, Anna and all the staff of Unión Deportiva Lanzarote.
LANZAROTE 4 FUERTEVENTURA 1
20th December 2008
Los Rojillos end the year on a high note after a superb display with temperatures on the island touching the mid 20´s and without a cloud in the sky. What could be more perfect?
With the Rojillos looking to avenge for last years home and away defeats to their derby rivals the game began fast and furious with the Majoreros (Fuerteventurians) setting the early pace. In the opening minute a free kick crossed in was met by Centre back Marce who powered in a goal bound header only for Lanzarote´s keeper to finger tip over in what could be described as a world class save.
Rojillos keeper Reguero in his last game for the club due to the financial problems of the U.D. Lanzarote kept his side in the match in the opening fifteen minutes with a string of fine saves. The Lanzarote defence with new local boy Fran making his debut looked stretched on occasions but still kept solid and importantly didn’t concede in the opening stages.
In the 18th minute Lanzarote caught Fuerteventura out with a counter attack. Maciot quickly passed the ball to Jonathon Torres whose first touch pass released the pacy Oscar Martin and the 19 year old flew past the left back and chipped over the oncoming keeper Nauzet into the empty net sending the Rojillos one nil up.
(left) Oscar Martín setting the Rojillos on their way with a cooley taken finish (right) Jonathan Torres completing the rout from a spot kick
(to all of you looking at this outside of Lanzarote check out the blue sky)
The Rojillos gave debuts to Miguel (goalkeeper), Derwin (defender), Oswaldo (centreback) who joined Francis who only made his debut last match. The two subs Ayoze Pérez and youngster Roberto Varela also played their first minutes defending the red and blue shirt of U.D. Lanzarote in Spains bronze league.
Lanzarote understandably looked nervous in the opening minutes with their new look young side and committed various mistakes and were fortunate not to be punished. Strikes from Mérida´s forwards Sabino and Victor Bravo were dealt with brilliantly by new keeper Miguel.
In the 14th minute the breakthrough finally came for the home side with striker Magallanes blasting home on his second attempt.
This goal was a blessing in disguise for the Rojillos as Mérida eased up with the pressure and Lanzarote began to gain possession. In the 40th minute wonder boy Oscar Martin was brought down from behind with only the keeper to beat and the ref had no hesitation in issuing the red card for defender Samir and the home side were reduced to ten men.
One minute after the interval and a free kick from Maciot was met by a brilliant header from Oscar Martin beating the keeper from ten yards.
Lanzarote looked the more likely to claim all three points and in the 83rd minute Maciot shot inches wide but in added on time Mérida had the best chance of the game when sub Ismael found himself on a one on one with keeper Miguel but Lanzarote´s new number one read the forwards movements and made a quality save giving his side a valuable point.
Lanzarote are now unbeaten in their last five winning three and two draws. Automatic relegation is now a distant nine points away but a Copa Del Rey spot is incredibly only four points within their grasp. With the first round of games now complete Lanzarote travel next week to Gran Canaria to face second from bottom side Villa Santa Brigida.
MÉRIDA 1 LANZAROTE 1
4th January 2009
Unión Deportiva Lanzarote returned from Extremadura in the south east of Spain with a superb hard fought point against sixth placed side Mérida.
Lanzarote´s number 8 Oscar Martín destined for a top career in professional football
¡Feliz Año Nuevo!
Villa Santa Brigida began the game brightly and early on Centre back Youssouf went close with a couple of headers. In the 34th minute following a deep corner from Dudi and a goalmouth scramble the ball was eventually blasted into the back of the net by Nacho sending the home side a goal up.
Santa Brigida would have been kicking themselves going into the break with only a slight advantage after all the possession they had.
Lanzarote came out from the half time interval with a completely different mentality and were intent to force the equalizer. Their cause was helped when only minutes into the second period midfielder Roberto was shown his second yellow card and the home side were reduced to ten men.
Only two minutes later and Santa Brigida received their punishment. A free kick from Rubén Rodriguez was powerfully headed home from Jonathon Torres.
The Rojillos now with their tails up were looking to claim all three points and with time on their side the odds looked good. The hardworking Oscar Martin and Torres were creating all sorts of problems for the home defence but were also guilty of missing a clear chance each.
This time the luck wasn’t with the Rojillos as the game ended with a point each which extends Lanzarote´s unbeaten run to six games.
Next week Lanzarote face a mouthwatering clash at home against league leaders Leganés. The game sees the return of Ex Lanzarote striker Anibal who will be set on a victory and to fulfill his dream of playing his football in Segunda A (championship).
If you are going to the game please check the website late this week for confirmation of kick off time as lately there have been alterations.
VILLA SANTA BRIGIDA 1 LANZAROTE 1
11th January 2009
A goal from Lanzarote striker Jonathon Torres leveled the scores against the Gran Canarian side on a cold and wet Sunday afternoon.
New boy Oswaldo yet to taste defeat wearing the Rojillos shirt.
Lanzarote began to grow in confidence and in the 20th minute Maciot sneaked in behind the defence and unleashed a good effort only for keeper Raúl Morena to make an equally good save turning the ball wide for a corner.
Good combination play from Juli and Nacho Aznar had Lanzarote´s keeper Miguel saving well with his feet in the 38th minute which kept the scores level at the break.
Six minutes into the second half and a second yellow card for defender Reyes reduced the away side down to 10 men.
Two minutes on and a good pass from Oscar Martín was laid on by Maciot killing the ball dead for Jonathon Torres to blast home. Unfortunately for the Rojillos the Madrid defence read the script and cleared the danger.
The league leaders still looked dangerous on the counter attack and another fine save from new Lanzarote keeper diving low to his left prevented midfielder Valleros opening the scoring.
In the 67th minute Maciot saw the keeper a few yards off his line and from 40 plus yards shot but keeper Raúl Moreno scrambled back and just about managed to palm the ball away for a corner.
Another superb defensive display by all of the back four but especially man of the match Rubén Rodriguez who worked tirelessly running up and down the left flank always looking to overlap with Maciot. His accuracy along with power and bend from dead ball situations caused problems for his opponents defence throughout the duel.
LANZAROTE 0 LÉGANES 0
18th January 2009
This may be Lanzarote´s third consecutive draw on the bounce but with two of those games being played away and this goalless draw against league leaders Léganes, those three points gained have pushed the Rojillos up to 11th position in the league.
Léganes had the best of the opening exchanges with winger Juli tormenting the Rojillo defence with teasing runs down the right flank. In only the 4th minute ex- Rojillo Anibal Zurdo shot narrowly wide for the Madrid side.
Ex Rojillo Anibal Zurdo been given a welcome return from the Lanzarote fans
With six of the 14 players used still playing their first few games at this level for Lanzarote, the game may have ended scoreless but the near 1000 crowd greeted the players with a standing ovation at the end of the game appreciating a top class effort.
Lanzarote travel to the capital next week to take on the B team of Atlético Madrid and will be looking to extend their seven game unbeaten run.
A superb performance from Lanzarote´s left back Rubén Rodriguez
From the start Atlético made their intentions clear with a formidable attacking display. In the 19th minute Lanzarote keeper Miguel was beaten for his first time with a strike from Koke. Moments later and Jonathon Torres had a fantastic opportunity to level the scores but shot wide.
Goals in the 28th and 35th minute effectively saw off the game for the red and white of Atlético Madrid.
As Lanzarote came out for the second half with their pride hurt they began to play football and a trip on Torres by defender Pérez gave Lanzarote a lifeline with a penalty. Torres stepped up but keeper De Gea saved well. This was not going to be Lanzarote´s day.
In the 66th minute sub Kiki made it 4-0 and with Lanzarote striker Toñito receiving his second yellow card in the 75th minute the Rojillos were forced to painfully endure the final fifteen minutes with only ten men.
Atlético´s sub Rubén Ramos who had only been on the park ten minutes bagged another two in stoppage time and Lanzarote were well and truly battered.
A hammering at some point was inevitable with a complete new look team. The response next Sunday at home to Las Palmas B is now what is important. The Rojillos are still eight points off automatic relegation but have slipped to only one point away to the deadly play off match with a third division side.
ATLÉTICO MADRID B 6 LANZAROTE 0
25th January 2009
Unión Deportiva Lanzarote got hit for six in a dismal day out in the Spanish capital. This ends the Rojillos seven game unbeaten run and new manager Carmelo Hernández tastes defeat for his first time in charge.
Lanzarote manager Carmelo Hernández looking for a positive response after this humiliating defeat
Lanzarote now looked in control of the game but in added on time in the first half only a goal line clearance from the Rojillo defence prevented the visitors going in level at the break.
The first five minutes of the second period and the yellow and blue of Las Palmas looked sure to score. An incredible strike from centre back Ibán from 40 yards left the Lanzarote keeper motionless but fortunately for the Rojillos the ball thundered off the inside of the left hand post and away to safety. Minutes later and midfielder Romario found himself through with just Miguel to beat. The Lanzarote number one read the situation and saved well with his feet.
The Rojillos gradually clawed their way back and began to look comfortable. Jonathon Torres was chasing down any loose ball and not allowing his opponents defence a second with possession. Vladi and Jotha were in complete control of midfield as Lanzarote were looking to kill off the game.
This all changed in the 72nd minute as Oscar Martin received his second yellow card for a dive and deservedly Lanzarote were down to ten men. Fortunately the classy Las Palmas centre back Ibán was also sent for an early shower following a needless foul.
In the closing seconds a fine save from Keeper Miguel with his legs ensured Lanzarote claimed all three points and move ten points off automatic relegation though still only four points away from the dreaded play off match with a third division club.
Next week Lanzarote travel to the south east of Spain to face the leagues meanest defence, fifth placed side Ciudad Lorquí.
LANZAROTE 1 LAS PALMAS B 0
1st February 2009
These three points could prove to be the most valuable of the season. With confidence battered from last weeks 6-0 thumping by At Madrid B a win against relegation competitors was just what the doctor ordered.
Captain Vladi (17) bagging 3 priceless points.
Las Palmas B did not look like a team in the drop zone. From the start they played some slick football even with a gale force wind in their faces.
The visitors may have held the majority of possession in the opening minutes but it was the home side who took the lead in the 17th minute. Maciot´s free kick was fiercely drilled in from the left wing and Vladi fulfilled his captains obligations with his determination to get to the ball first and blasted home into the bottom left hand corner.
Despite the conditions both sides managed to entertain the crowd as the Rojillos looked to increase the lead and the Gran Canarian side was desperate to retrieve anything from the game.
In the 34th minute Jonathon Torres with his back to goal turned his defender and unleashed a low powerful shot that was inches wide of the left hand post. Ten minutes on and following some neat one touch passing Vladi hit a screamer that flew just over the bar.
The hard working Jonathon Torres never allowing the opposition to settle.
Lanzarote keeper Miguel ensuring victory with a fine display
The game began with the home side dominating possession though Lanzarote were more threatening on the counter attack but were just lacking the killer touch.
The deadlock was broken on the half hour. Striker Sousa received a through ball on a quick counter attack which took the Rojillo defence by surprise and his shot beat Lanzarote keeper Miguel with ease.
Only seven minutes later and the scores were level. Captain Vladamir was brought down in the area and Jonathon Torres converted the spot kick. Just before the break Lorquí were unlucky not to go in front when a shot from midfielder Aitor beat the keeper but hit the post and the ball was then cleared to safety.
Early in the second half Lanzarote looked more adventurous and the game was in the balance. All changed in 56th minute when Vladamir received his second yellow card and the Rojillos were reduced to ten men.
Lorquí completely took control of the game and only 10 minutes after the sending off defender Juan Carlos strike sent the home team in front. In the 77th minute striker Sousa bagged another and made the game safe with a score line of 3-1. Deep into stoppage time and Ortega hit the fourth which means Lanzarote have now conceded 10 goals in their last two away matches.
Despite this poor result Lanzarote remain in 12th position and with two consecutive home games on the bounce will be looking to pull further away of any relegation worries. First up is second placed Cartagena who trounced Universidad 4-0 at the weekend and are in good form with ten points out of the last twelve.
CIUDAD LORQUÍ 4 LANZAROTE 1
8th February 2009
U.D. Lanzarote were heavily defeated for their second consecutive away match in Murcia against promotion chasing Atlético Ciudad Lorquí.
Despite his instructions manager Carmelo Hernández suffers another heavy away loss.
Lanzarote began the game brightly and in the opening minute Rojillos midfielder Ayoze Pérez tested keeper Rubén who saved well turning the ball away for a corner.
In the third minute the Cartagena goalkeeper collided with the post and was immediately substituted with replacement keeper Castilla.
On the first attack for the away team in the seventh minute the ball was swept in the centre from the corner and the ball fell kindly for defender Miki who blasted home from close range.
Lanzarote leveled the scores in the 15th minute following great work down the right wing from Angel Gil and Peréz. The latter fired in from the right wing a low and hard cross leaving the defenders looking on as striker Maciot tapped in at the far post.
The Rojillos now began to look the more dangerous of the two sides and in the 17th minute Cartagena keeper saved well from a Maciot strike and a few minutes on and Jonathon Torres shot just wide.
That was about as good as it was going to get for Lanzarote as league leaders Cartagena began to impress. In the 26th minute Rojillos keeper Miguel fumbled a shot from striker Carmona and the ball crawled over the line. A couple of minutes before the break and it was 1-3 with a goal that angered Rojillos boss Carmelo Hernández by the lack of flag movement from the referees assistant as a clear offside was not given.
Lanzarote came out for the second half with their heads held high and had their opposition on the back foot. Cartagena defended well and contained the onslaught. In the 63rd minute a bizarre red card was given to defender Fran Barrios. The ref had not yellow carded the player before but after a minor incident he received his first yellow then the ref at the same time branded him a red. The poor lad had only been on the pitch for six minutes and had already been sent for an early shower.
Cartagena killed off the game four minutes later when striker Tato got in round the back of the defender and neatly beat keeper Miguel slotting the ball into the right hand corner of the net.
To make matters worse for the Rojillos they finished the game with only nine men when defender Angel Gil picked up his second yellow card with three minutes to go.
Next weeks home game against Universidad who occupy 15th position, a point behind Lanzarote is now crucial. See at top of the page discounted gate prices and the later kick off.
LANZAROTE 1 CARTAGENA AT 4
15th February 2009
For the second consecutive week the Rojillos suffer defeat by four goals to one and slip within five points of the relegation places.
Maciot levels the score but Lanzarote are still on the wrong end of a 4-1 scoreline
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The Rojillos began the game on the front foot. After only two minutes a short corner from Maciot was struck by the former Real Madrid player Jotha from 25 yards only for the ball to thunder off the bar and away to safety.
Last years play off team Universidad immediately got back into the game and were looking the more dangerous of the two teams. In the ninth minute striker Rubén Pullido shot from the edge of the box and beat debutant keeper Victor but failed to beat his far post as the ball struck the upright and landed with the Lanzarote defence.
Both sides were playing good football and possession for the remainder of the first half was even. Just before the break Universidad´s talented winger Ariday had a great opportunity to put his side in front when he dribbled through the Rojillo defence and unleashed a shot which was well saved by keeper Victor.
Lanzarote looked a lot more dominant in the early stages of the second half and in the 53rd minute a goal bound header was cleared off the line from the hard working Lanzarote front man Jonathon Torres. Minutes later and Jotha had a strike from close range but the Universidad defence led by ex Lanzarote player Sergio cleared the danger.
Universidad also had chances and just past the hour winger Yavhé robbed the ball off centre back Quique Crespo but his shot was just wide of the post. A real let off for the new Lanzarote signing who otherwise had a faultless performance.
The final minutes of the match were highly entertaining with both sides knowing the importance of a solitary goal. In the 91st minute a brilliant dribbling run from Maciot and a shot to match was equally met by Universidad keeper Santi Lampón. Moments later up the other end a free header for sub Pachi Castellano went straight into the hands of keeper Victor.
Without any doubt the best opportunity of the match occurred in the final seconds. A fierce low drive from the edge of the box by captain Vladamir was well saved by the Gran Canarian keeper but as the ball span out and from inside the six yard box with the keeper on the floor the Rojillos striker Jonathon Torres blasted a strike high towards the sun with the ball landing in a nearby car park. The players fell to the ground in disappointment, the 1000 plus crowd all held their hands to their heads and the ref blew for full time. Your heart went out for the poor lad as he had worked tirelessly throughout the match.
The crowd couldn’t have asked for more as the effort from the Lanzarote boys deserved more than a point. Both teams struggled in the 25 degree heat and the exhaustion of both teams on the final whistle was evident.
Lanzarote slip a place in the table to 13th but are now six points clear of automatic relegation. Next week the Rojillos travel to the south east of Madrid and have another relegation crunch match against Navalcarnero who are lying four points behind Lanzarote and are sitting in the deadly relegation play off spot.
LANZAROTE 0 UNIVERSIDAD 0
22nd February 2009
Lanzarote failed in their attempt to bag all three points against lowly Universidad of Gran Canaria in a nail biting relegation battle.
Jonathan Torres missing the target from four yards with the goal at his mercy
Lanzarote dominated the opening stages of this crucial relegation clash. Strikes from Maciot and Jotha came close but the battling home side gradually clawed their way into the game.
In the 23rd minute striker Victor Blanco missed a sitter. With the keeper stranded and the goal gaping he stuck the ball wide of the three posts. The same player 15 minutes later had a good headed effort miss by inches and the Rojillos were kept on the back foot reliant on counter attacks for the remainder of the first half.
Only a minute into the second half and the home side were in front. Lanzarote´s centre back Quique Crespo lost possession inside the final third and striker Rayco beat keeper Victor Saiz with ease.
Immediately this brought back life for the Rojillos. Five minutes after going behind defender Angel Gil flew down the wing and centered a cross for Jonathon Torres who duly nodded home. As the game wore on the Madrid side looked the more likely to score as most of the action was in Lanzarote´s final third.
Just as the Rojillos believed that they had weathered the storm defender Arribas fired in a late winner and claimed three priceless points for the home team.
Lanzarote remain six points away from automatic relegation but have slipped down to 15th position. Needless to say three points from next Sunday’s home match to bottom club Playas Jandia is vital.
NAVALCARNERO 2 LANZAROTE 1
1st March 2009
U.D. Lanzarote cruelly suffer defeat in the final minute of play against the Madrid side who still occupy the deadly play off position with a third division club but move within one point of Lanzarote in the league table.
Defender Angel Gil supplying the cross for Torres to level the scores
The game began typical of a Derby encounter with both teams fighting for every challenge and the majority of the battle took place in the centre of the park.
The first moments of danger came from the Fuerteventura side. In the sixth minute a cross from the left wing looked as though it was stabbed home by Atxabal only for the Rojillos (reds) keeper to fingertip the ball wide for a corner.
In the 12th minute a wonder strike by Jotha from 25 yards produced a marvelous save from the Jandia keeper Ramón, with the ball been hit at pace and with swerve Ramón finger tipped the ball onto the bar and away to safety.
In the 32nd minute Lanzarote took the lead. Following great vision from striker Torres who threaded a pass through for Oscar Martin. The 19 year old galloped down the right wing and cut inside the defence and shot from seven yards and with the aid of a deflection beat the keeper at his near post.
Ex Real Madrid star Jotha began to dominate play with pin point passing alongside captain Vladi who was rarely second best in a tackle. Two minutes after taking the lead the Rojillos should of doubled the score line. A free kick from Rúben Rodriguez found the toe of the outstretched Torres but the ball was scrambled off the line.
Five minutes before the break and Jandia were level. With Lanzarote´s regular centre back Adrian being diagnosed with pneumonia during the week midfielder Oswaldo was draughted in for cover. The replacement defender naively was turned by the towering centre forward Héctor and his initial strike deflected off a defender but with the ball rebounding kindly back to him he neatly chipped over the defender sending his side level into the half time break.
Those who were back late to their seats for the beginning of the second half missed an incredible three minutes of football. Within thirty seconds of the restart the Fuerteventura side took the lead. Winger Miguel was causing allsorts of problems with the Lanzarote defence with his pace and switching of flanks and on this occasion beat his right back and unleashed a shot from six yards which Rojillos keeper chose to go low and was beaten tamely at his near post as the ball rose above him.
From the kick off Lanzarote immediately replied. A shot from the edge of the box by Vladi was well saved but the rebound fell kindly for striker Toñito who calmly slotted the ball home.
The Rojillos were now looking for the kill. One minute after leveling the score Oscar Martin weighted a perfect cross for Maciot who nodded home sending the Rojillos incredibly 3-2 up.
The crowd was ecstatic and with all women being given free entry to the match in recognition of The International day of violence against women the atmosphere became electric.
Only two minutes later a red card for Lanzarote´s playmaker Jotha sobered the party. Jandia saw their opportunity and began to mount pressure on Lanzarote. On the hour mark ex Rojillo Checa came close with a header but minutes later he made no mistake by volleying from eight yards and again the scores were level.
In the 72nd minute the tide turned once more with a second yellow card for Jandia´s midfielder Richard and Lanzarote were sniffing a victory.
Wave after wave of attack was directed at the visitor’s goal. In the 91st minute sub and debut boy Pelagrin fought and won a header in the six yard box and as the ball fell behind Maciot he quickly readjusted his position and acrobatically overhead kicked and found the bottom right hand corner. The noise in the stands was deafening as Lanzarote claimed three priceless points in their bid for survival.
LANZAROTE 4 PLAYAS JANDIA 3
8th March 2009
Seven goals, two sending offs and a last gasp Maciot winner is what it took for U.D. Lanzarote to win this thrilling Canarian Derby match.
The crowd enjoying a beautiful day, watching a beautiful game with a perfect result
Captain Vladi on the ball with ex-Rojillo Checa in pursuit
Lanzarote climb two places up to 13th position and are still six points from relegation but have opened up a three point gap from the relegation play off place. Next Sunday the Rojillos travel to Gran Canaria and face the much improved Vecindario side.
The joy of football as Maciot celebrates his late winner
Vecindario looked the brighter of the two teams in the opening 10 minutes with two good opportunities been struck over the bar. The Rojillos then began to keep possession and began to look the more dangerous.
In the 35th minute Lanzarote were in front. A cross from Rúben Rodriguez was met with a fine glancing header from centre back Quique Crespo leaving keeper Javi Ortega motionless.
The introduction of Raúl Borrero for the second half paid instant dividends for the Gran Canarian side. Within the first minute the substitute latched onto a pass through the centre and leveled the scores. Four minutes later and the scores were completely reversed. Midfielder Jony stole the ball in the centre and ran at the Lanzarote defence then squared a pass for the unmarked Borrero who tapped the ball home.
The Rojillos went searching for a point but only really threatened the home side late on. The best chance fell to Maciot. A free kick only four yards from goal was blasted by the Lanzarote striker but Vecindario´s wall stood firm and blocked the effort.
Another away defeat for the Rojillos sees them slip to 13th but with neighbours Fuerteventura chalking up their 7th defeat on the bounce leaving themselves level on points with Lanzarote they have also joined the relegation battle.
Next Sunday Lanzarote face a very difficult game versus in form Sangonera Atlético who have only lost once in their last 12 games.
VECINDARIO 2 LANZAROTE 1
15th March 2009
Two goals in five minutes at the beginning of the second half has put Lanzarote within five points of automatic relegation and only two points away from the dreaded relegation play off spot.
(Pictured centre) Quique Crespo giving Lanzarote a 0-1 advantage to take in at the half time break
The first chance of the game fell to Sangonera striker Raúl Salas in the fourth minute. Ex Rojillo striker found himself with just the keeper to beat but shot high and over the bar. Moments later an inch perfect pass from the tireless Jonathon Torres let in Maciot but the Lanzarote forwards good effort was just wide of the post.
In the 21st minute following a long through ball the Lanzarote keeper came bolting off his line with no chance of beating Raúl Salas to the ball and was left stranded. The striker simply passed the ball to team mate Elias to poke home.
The side from Murcia sat back for the remainder of the half and let Lanzarote dominate possession without any real goal mouth threat.
Rojillos manager Carmelo Hernández swiftly made two substitutions at the beginning of the second half bringing on Jotha and Toñito in exchange for Francis and Pelegrin.
Just after the hour mark another moment of madness from Lanzarote´s number one allowed Sangonera to give themselves a two goal cushion. A harmless pass through the middle would have been dealt with ease from Centre back Adrián, only for keeper Victor Saiz to gallop out of his box and collide with his centre back, allowing Elias to brilliantly chip over the returning defenders from a narrow angle to score his and his teams second and final goal of the afternoon.
For the following few minutes the players and the silenced crowd all looked demoralized. Bit by bit the passing got flowing and the tempo began to increase. In the 75th minute sub Toñito controlled the ball inside the area and with his back to goal swiveled and struck the ball wide of the keeper and inside the far post to make the score 1-2.
Lanzarote then went desperately in search of an equalizer and with the vociferous crowd it didn’t take long. With six minutes left on the clock striker Jonathon Torres beautifully controlled a centered pass, turned his defender and planted a neat finish low in the bottom corner.
The atmosphere became electric and after a bad fall from the Sangonera keeper which led to him suffering breathing problems and carried off into an ambulance, the away side were forced to play the nine minutes of added on time with only 10 men. Having already made use of the three substitutions defender Rangel put on the gloves and played in goal.
The ball was constantly flung into the away sides goal mouth as Lanzarote piled on the pressure in search of claiming all three points. The last opportunity fell to Toñito. From only a few yards out and with the word HERO blazing across his eyes he blasted the ball just over the upright.
After a point been shared at the final whistle two Lanzarote players became heated in a conversation. Jonathon Torres and Ayoze then raised hands and a small fracas broke out. Captain Vladamir and several team mates soon broke the tension but the two players are sure to receive economical discipline.
This point sees Lanzarote slip one place to 14th and they are now only three points away from relegation and the relegation play off position. Fuerteventura slip below Lanzarote into 15th place following their eighth consecutive defeat by four goals to nil away to Mérida. On Wednesday Lanzarote travel to Madrid and face third from bottom Alfaro followed by a home game Sunday against Real Murcia B.
LANZAROTE 2 SANGONERA AT 2
22nd March 2009
U.D. Lanzarote rally in the final 15 minutes and claw back a two goal deficit alter conceding two horrendous goals gifted by the Lanzarote goalkeeper Victor Saiz.
Stiker Torres scoring in the 84th minute and securing a point for the Rojillos
The locals began the game on the front foot and took the lead in the 25th minute. Centre back Marcos Martin jumped unchallenged from a corner kick and nodded home. Minutes later an effort from Ayoze Peréz was inches away from leveling the score for Lanzarote.
Just after the half hour mark some good combination play led to a tap in at the far post for striker César Remón and Alfaro, whilst under pressure for the final 15 minutes kept their two goal cushion to take into the half time break.
Both teams came out for the second half with the mentality of attack. Alfaro to kill off the game and for Lanzarote the reality of relegation to the third Division proving the inspiration to motivate the players.
Alfaro missed a couple of great opportunities and were almost made to pay when Lanzarote striker Maciot thought he had pulled a goal back but the home keeper had other ideas and saved brilliantly to the relief of his team mates and 800 crowd.
Late on goal keeper Luis Miguel proved his worth saving twice from Rojillos forward Pelegrin and gave his side a glimmer of hope by moving his team within eight points of safety.
Lanzarote drop two places to 16th and occupy the play off position with a third division club to remain in this league.
Life will not be made any easier next Sunday when promotion chasing Real Murcia B visit Lanzarote. Cementing their top four position which is what is required to qualify for the play offs for promotion will be their number one priority.
ALFARO 2 LANZAROTE 0
25th March 2009
Lanzarote suffer a terrible defeat in Madrid against third from bottom side Alfaro and have now dropped into the dreaded relegation play off position and are only three points from automatic relegation.
Is that water or vodka? Lanzarote Manager Carmelo Hernández drinking away his problems.
This game was no different. Going a goal down within two minutes the players showed remarkable character by totally outplaying fourth placed side Real Murcia B.
The game did not start well for the Rojillos. Indecisiveness in the Lanzarote defence in the second minute of the game led to striker Pico stabbing home past the helpless Lanzarote keeper Miguel.
Lanzarote´s response was superb with Jotha and Vladi winning the midfield battle and releasing man of the match Ayoze Pérez to use his trickery and pace down the right flank.
In the 24th minute a galloping run down the left wing from defender Rúben Rodriguez who then passed the ball inside to Jonathon Torres and the inform striker’s first touch beat the defender, he then released an inch perfect pass to Ayoze Pérez but the wingers goal bound effort was blocked well by Murcia’s keeper Álvaro Campos.
Real Murcia then began to muster up in midfield and both sides produced good close one touch football as well as long distance accurate passing. The football that was being played was a joy to the eye and a good headed effort by centre back Juachi went just over for the visitors followed by Maciot coming close with a header that fell into the keepers arms.
Rojillos manager Carmelo Hernández problems compounded when he was forced to make a double substitution replacing the injured Maciot and Rúben Rodriguez with Oscar Martin and Toñito.
Three minutes either side of the break saw Lanzarote draw level then go in front. Centre back Quique Crespo cleverly headed backwards inside the six yard box evening up the scores and a Torres trademark with back to goal, his first touch beating the defender and his second a low hard drive past the Murcian keeper.
Lanzarote were on song and in the 69th minute Quique Crespo headed effort was handled by a defender but the rebound fell kindly and he blasted home only for the ref to disallow the effort as he had already blown for a spot kick. Substitute Pelegrin stepped up and coolly slotted home into the bottom right hand corner sending the keeper in the wrong direction.
In the 80th minute Real Murcia were handed a lifeline. A shot from the edge of the box was handled by Ayoze Pérez and the official correctly awarded his second penalty kick of the day. Fortunately the crowd weren’t going to be in for a nail biting finish as sub Dani Sanchez fired high and over.
This top class performance has moved Lanzarote up to 14th and the club is now three points from the relegation play off spot and a further three points away from automatic relegation. Next week Lanzarote travel to the mainland and face Lorca. The Murcian side is in good form following two successive wins; the latter a 1-0 away win against second placed side Cartagena which earns them a place in the all important top four.
LANZAROTE 3 REAL MURCIA B 1
29th March 2009
Nobody can deny the entertainment value displayed by U.D. Lanzarote over the last three home games. With a total 15 goals been scored and fans being transfixed to each game for every minute they have now been assured that their team will not go down till the last breath has been drawn.
A performance full of trickery from winger Ayoze Pérez
This was always going to be a tough game. Since Christmas Lanzarote lost 14 experienced players replacing them with mostly island players who were playing in the local leagues. The squad was already stretched to the maximum so replacing those six players and trying for a result against promotion chasing Lorca led to the game always having an air of inevitability to it.
The hosts dominated play and took the lead in the 23rd minute when striker Rúben Garcia was left unmarked and nodded home from a corner.
Lanzarote tried to react but offered little threat to the Lorca goalkeeper and the Rojillos were fortunate to go into the interval with only a one goal deficit.
Two minutes into the second half and Lanzarote were handed a lifeline. Defender Vicente received his second yellow card and Lorca were forced to play with only ten men for the whole second half.
Lanzarote still never forced the game and within ten minutes of the sending off Lorca found their two goal cushion. A cross from the right wing was met with a good header from centre back Perona and the Lanzarote keeper Miguel could only get a weak hand on the ball which lifted the ball into the roof of the net.
Lanzarote did not offer one moment of danger as Lorca recorded their seventh victory out of their last ten games which now moves them into fourth position and into the last play off spot.
This result was eased a little as most of the other relegation candidates didn’t pick up points so Lanzarote remain in 14th position six points away from automatic relegation and three points from the relegation play off spot. Next Sunday the Rojillos are at home against mid table side Águilas.
LORCA 2 LANZAROTE 0
5th April 2009
The Rojillos travelled the 12 hour journey to Murcia and came home without a point in a lackluster performance which was not helped without six first team players who were either suspended or injured.
A look of dismay on the Rojillo bench
The Rojillos had much the better of the opening stages and looked the most determined to break the deadlock but were just lacking the all important finish.
In the 18th minute winger Oscar Martin controlled the ball on the edge of the area and on the turn shot a good effort which was well saved by the Águilas keeper José Juan. Minutes later and a free kick from Maciot found the head of the unmarked Quique Crespo but the centre back headed inches over.
The visitors began to break down the possession that Lanzarote had been asserting and danger was heading towards the Rojillos keeper Miguel. On the half hour Águilas were in front. Midfielder Navarro controlled the ball neatly just inside the area and hit a volley which flew past the Lanzarote keeper.
As often this season Lanzarote were going to have to come from behind to salvage anything from the game. In the final couple of minutes of the first half Lanzarote had three good opportunities to level the score. Keeper José Juan showed good reflexes saving a shot by Oscar Martin and Jonathon Torres shot the rebound wide. Moments later and Maciot shot well but his effort went straight at the impressive Águilas keeper.
Lanzarote totally dominated the second period of the match and in the 54th minute defender Angel Gil goal bound effort was tipped wide by the keeper for a corner. Good chances for Jotha and Jonathon Torres went begging and in the 74th minute Rojillos manager Carmelo Hernández freshened up the attack by introducing strikers Toñito and Pelegrin.
Two minutes later and Toñito won the ball off a defender and his inch perfect pass was met by striker Torres but once again José Juan frustrated the Lanzarote faithful by tipping the ball wide for yet another corner.
In the 83rd minute Lanzarote believed the breakthrough had finally come. Following a free kick, Torres headed at the far post which at last beat keeper José Juan only for the linesman to dubiously raise his flag for offside.
In the 86th minute another fine save from the Águilas shot stopper denied Jotha and moments later substitute Derwin headed inches wide. In injury time substitute Pelegrin had an incredible opportunity to rescue a point but his shot from the penalty spot was inevitably saved by the man of the match José Juan.
Lanzarote slip one place to 15th but are still three points clear of the relegation play off spot following the home defeat of Navalcarnero. The Madrid side has had numerous opportunities to catch Lanzarote but with three defeats on the bounce they have not capitalized. Fuerteventura leapfrogged Lanzarote by beating Las Palmas in Gran Canaria by two goals to one. Las Palmas B still occupy the last automatic relegation spot and are six points behind Lanzarote.
Next week Lanzarote face a mammoth task away in Madrid against Alcorcon. With 20 games without a defeat and only four points from the play offs it will be unlikely that Alcorcon will show much mercy to lowly Lanzarote.
LANZAROTE 0 ÁGUILAS 1
12th April 2009
Lanzarote missed out on the chance to steer themselves clear of the relegation positions after a home defeat by the Murcian side Águilas.
Oscar Martin one of many to have a luckless day in front of goal
The fifth from bottom side will have to endure a play off match with a third Division club come the end of the season. Currently Navalcarnero occupy this position and are three points adrift of Lanzarote, however with one win and a loss for Lanzarote they would leapfrog Lanzarote due to their two wins against the Rojillos this season. Goal difference does not apply in the Spanish league.
The game against promotion chasing Alcorcon began comfortably for Lanzarote with Rojillos keeper Miguel with little to do for the opening half hour. In the 32nd minute a free kick by the lively Susaeta beat the unfortunate Lanzarote keeper and striker Nevado poked home from close range.
Lanzarote dominated the remainder of the first half and efforts from Oscar Martin, Vladi and Jonathon Torres came close but the Rojillos were going to have to come from behind in the second half to salvage anything from the game.
On the hour mark Lanzarote were given a double bonus. Defender Hugo brought down Torres inside the area and the ref awarded the Rojillos a spot kick and brandished the defender his second yellow card and Alcorcon were forced to play the remainder of the half hour with only ten men.
Sub Pelgrin stepped up to level the scores only for keeper Raúl to save well to maintain Alcorcon´s narrow advantage. In the 77th minute Lanzarote somewhat fortunately leveled the scores. Good work again by Torres forced defender Tito to put the ball into his own net and now Lanzarote went searching for a win.
Five minutes later and Lanzarote´s poor defending at dead ball situations was all too apparent. Playmaker Susaeta floated the ball into the danger zone and without too much difficulty sub López nodded home restoring the advantage to the home side.
Lanzarote could not find the net in the remaining seven minutes and to make matters worse Lanzarote´s top striker Jonathon Torres received his second yellow card in the final minute and will miss next weeks home fixture with the future superstars of Real Madrid’s B team.
ALCORCON 2 LANZAROTE 1
19th April 2009
Lanzarote lose in Madrid and are walking a tightrope with a relegation play off match possibly only three games away. Again on a positive note Lanzarotes´s looks set to avoid automatic relegation as fourth from bottom side Las Palmas B are six points off safety following their 3-0 away defeat to Mérida.
Jonathon Torres earning Lanzarote a penalty.
In Lanzarote´s biggest game of the season against the B Team of the mighty Real Madrid ticket prices have been drastically reduced.
Adults 6€
Pensioners/12-17 year olds 3€
Children under 12 free
The President of the club Victoriano Elvira and Club Directors agreed with the players who asked for the price reduction in order to create an electric atmosphere.
Every season this game produces the largest crowd and the club urges that locals, expats and tourists to come and lend their voice.
With 3 games left to play Lanzarote are 3 points clear of the relegation play off spot. Navalcarnero are one place behind Lanzarote occupying this position but after doing the double over Lanzarote this season if they were to finish on level points they would steer clear of the relegation play off match. (in reality they are two points behind as goal difference in Spanish league football does not count).
Support the local team and see Real Madrid´s future super stars. Earlier this season Real Madrid suffered their first home defeat in more than a year to Lanzarote.
Last season Lanzarote went a goal down to Real Madrid in the opening minute but then played fantastic football and ran out 3-1 winners.
If you wish a child to be a mascot for the day and would like them to run on the pitch and have their photo taken with both sets of teams free of charge, please call me, Ian +34 649 963 943.
21st April 2009
Lanzarote v Real Madrid B
Gate Prices Reduced
Sunday 26th April kick off at 11 am
Real Madrids Future Stars
The Lanzarote faithful now fully behind their team was encouraging them for a leveler before the break. A complete turn around of possession and Lanzarote were closing in on their famous counterparts. Efforts from Maciot, Toñito and Oscar Martin came close but the best came from defender Ayoze Pérez, whose powerful strike from 25 yards was superbly tipped wide from Real´s keeper Felipe for a corner.
Lanzarote came out for the second half with plenty of confidence and held the majority of possession. Real Madrid sat back and with a defence as organized as this and a counter attack faster than a Ricky Hatton jab it was easy to see why.
Just past the hour and from one of those quick counter attacks from the impressive and extremely quick winger Zamora who ran the length of the pitch flying past the Rojillos defence only for Miguel to save well from his shot on the edge of the penalty area.
The same player in the 75th minute made no mistake. With Lanzarote in search of a goal the ball was cleared and Zamora was given the benefit of the doubt with an offside decision and within seconds he neatly netted past the advancing Rojillos keeper.
Lanzarote carried on fighting but the fitness and the youth of Real Madrid held on comfortably and deserved their victory.
With two games remaining Lanzarote are fortunately in only a slight worse position following their defeat. Defeats for Navalcarnero and Fuerteventura were hugely beneficial but a victory for Las Palmas B has moved them out of automatic relegation and into the play off position, swapping positions with Navalcarnero.
In short Lanzarote need four points from their two remaining games to guarantee safety. The first is a mouthwatering trip to Fuerteventura (the club will be offering a hugely discounted trip to this match for anyone wishing to come. Prices will follow shortly but do contact myself or visit the club if interested). The final home game is against a rejuvenated Mérida side who has won five of their last seven games.
Should Lanzarote lose their game in Fuerteventura and both Navalcarnero and Las Palmas B win then the Rojillos would fall into the automatic relegation positions.
LANZAROTE 1 REAL MADRID B 3
27th April 2009
Two goals down before reaching the quarter hour mark was not the ideal start Lanzarote were looking for in their quest to keep their Segunda B (league 1) status.
Real Madrid´s future Superstars.
Anyone wishing for their child to be a mascot in the final home game please contact me.
Ladies wishing to join the team photo along side the so called "cute" Oscar Martín will not be permitted.
Lanzarote began the opening minutes in confident mood. In the fourth minute a strike from ex Real Madrid player Jotha shaved the visitors post. This confidence was going to be short lived as Real Madrid’s second eleven started to string together accurate quick passing which had the Conejeros (locals) running around in circles.
In the 10th minute Lanzarote´s weakness in defending dead ball situations was going to be demonstrated yet again. A free kick from Alberto Bueno was swung in from the left and the unmarked centre back Scorch unchallenged header was blocked only for the ball to drop kindly for striker Palanco to gratefully send the white of Real Madrid to a 0-1 lead.
Only three minutes later and the score line was doubled. A quick counter attack led to striker Szalai controlling the ball on the edge of the box then beating his defender and unleashing a shot wide of keeper Miguel into the far corner of the net for his fifteenth goal of the season.
It was evident that the Rojillos pride had been hurt and the Conejeros began to fight. Moments later and winger Oscar Martin pleaded for a penalty after being brought down near the penalty spot with only the keeper to beat. The ref neither awarded a penalty nor booked the Rojillos winger.
In the 18th minute and after intense pressure Lanzarote pulled a goal back. Maciot´s low strike from the left was saved by the Madrid keeper Felipe but the ball fell for Oscar Martin who touched the ball home.
Number 16 Maciot fighting for the cause.
Lanzarote goal scorer Oscar Martín
29th April 2009
Support the Rojillos in Fuerteventura
The trip includes:
* Bus from our stadium Sunday morning to Playa Blanca
* Ferry crossing return
* Bus and tickets to game
Price: Adults 35€ (anyone above 11yrs), Children 18€ (under 11 yrs)
Pay at the Club on Wednesday or Thursday (Friday bank holiday) office open 8 am - 3 pm and bring photocopy of NIE.
For any further information please call Ian on 649 963 943 or send an e-mail to info@mercancialanzarote.com
Lanzarote were on fire and looked certain to increase their advantage. In the space of 30 seconds the Rojillos bombarded the goalmouth of Fuerteventura keeper Omar. Maciot powerfully struck from distance which was well saved by the keeper but the rebound again fell to Maciot who’s second effort cannoned off the bar. Ayoze Pérez then kept the momentum going with a centered cross for Jonathon Torres but Omar saved well from close range against Lanzarote´s top marksmen.
Maciot again came close forcing a finger tip save from Omar and strikes from Pérez and Jotha were only inches away from increasing the lead. With Lanzarote enjoying a vast majority of possession the importance of that second goal was becoming urgent. Seconds before the break the Rojillos almost paid the price as Fuerteventura striker Fuli somehow shot wide from two yards out with the goal at his mercy.
Lanzarote kicked off the second period in much the same fashion dominating play. In the 47th minute centre back Jose Antonio brought down Rojillos striker Torres and received his second yellow card and the Majoreros (Fuerteventurians) were going to have to play the entire second half with 10 men. From the subsequent free kick Rúben Rodriguez powered in a left footed drive which thundered off the underside of the bar and away to safety.
The ten men of Fuerteventura gradually began to threaten and their cause was helped in the 72nd minute when Lanzarote´s right back Ayoze Pérez followed through on a challenge and was correctly brandished with a red card.
The Rojillos looked worried and only eight minutes on the inevitable happened. Lanzarote´s defence backed off and Isaac hit a sweet shot from 25 yards beating keeper Miguel at his right hand post.
Lanzarote only had one option and that was to attack. A draw or a defeat would not make any difference to the league standings so the Rojillos went for broke. Wave after wave of attack was dealt with by a well organized Fuerteventura defence and in return they also went in search of a winner on the counter attack.
In the final minute sub Toñito´s fresh legs beat the right back and perfectly brought the ball back from the byline. The young winger sent a teasing low cross into the goalmouth just wide of the keeper’s fingertips and on the far post Lanzarote´s hero on many an occasion slid in and stuck the ball home guaranteeing his sides position in Spain’s third tier of professional football next season.
At the final whistle the players threw their shirts into the away crowd amidst jubilant scenes. After a season of turmoil with the clubs new sponsors pulling out after only a month which caused an exodus of over half the squad come Christmas the club President Victoriano Elvira and fans were close to tears with the realization of their win against the battle for survival.
FUERTEVENTURA 1 LANZAROTE 2
3rd May 2009
Lanzarote secured their ninth Season in Spain’s third league of professional football with a dramatic last minute winner through local hero Maciot in a thrilling, nail biting Derby match.
Rúben Rodriguez celebrating the opening goal for the Rojillos
Over 200 fans made the journey on the ferry to Fuerteventura. The matched kicked off at 4.30pm with temperatures exceeding the mid 20´s. The Rojillos midfield began to dominate early with Jotha and Vladi creating chances for their front men.
In the 7th minute a great run on the left wing from Oscar Martin who beat two defenders then released a strike past the keeper, only to see his effort rebound off the woodwork and into the path of Rúben Rodriguez. The makeshift midfielder made no mistake sending Lanzarote into a 0-1 lead from close range.
Let the party begin
Manager Carmelo Hernández orchestrating the post match party celebrations
Many of the players and fans will wake up with sore heads Monday morning as the party began on the ferry home to the “Island of the Volcanoes.”
The final home game of the season is against Mérida. The team from the region of Extremadura in Spain will be in search of a victory to guarantee a place in next seasons Copa Del Rey. Anyone wishing their child to be a mascot for this final match please contact me.
Young Gemma being gifted the shirt of her hero Oscar Martín
The Rojillos reply was almost instant as Oscar Martin sent through a low cross into the six yard box but unfortunately Maciot couldn’t stretch far enough to bury home.
Ten minutes into the second half and a near post free kick headed home by defender Fran Miranda gave the away side a two goal advantage.
Oscar Martin then began taking the game to the mainlanders. A brilliant run from the 20 year old skipping through the defence only to see his goal bound shot to be blocked at the last second. In the 67th minute good work from Angel, Oscar Martin and Torres who chipped the ball to Maciot but his volley flew inches past the right hand post.
A reply from Lanzarote was imminent as Oscar Martin and Oswaldo came close. In the 75th minute a quick free kick on the edge of the box by the ever alert Toñito was returned to him by Torres and the Lanzarote striker calmly stroked the ball home past the advancing keeper.
Four minutes later and Toñito came close to leveling the scores but his shot cleared past keeper Sergio but also the far post.
In the 80th minute it was season over for Lanzarote as sub Xavi Moro crossed to the far post and Mérida´s Captain Sabino elegantly volleyed home from close range.
The players of U.D. Lanzarote received a standing ovation from the Rojillos faithful at the final whistle. A 14th placed finish might not look good in the history books but with the clubs sponsors backing out after the opening month of the season, which saw 14 players leave at Christmas and inexperienced local players filling their boots anything other than relegation can be looked upon as heroic. (click onto league table to see final league standings)
Keeping Lanzarote in Spain’s third tier of professional football not only publicizes the island nationally but gives hope to the islands youth for a career in the world’s greatest game.
If you are from the island or simply here on holiday and wish to take in a game or would like any information, feel free to drop me a line. Alternatively come and see me any Sunday at the clubs stall at Teguise market and I will be happy to supply any information which could be of use.
LANZAROTE 1 MÉRIDA 3
10th May 2009
U.D. Lanzarote were beaten in the final game of the season to the Extremadura side in a surprisingly entertaining match which saw temperatures at the start of play touching 30 degrees in the shade.
The Rojillos began the brighter of the two sides and after only five minutes a quick counter attack led by Capitain Vladi who released the highly dangerous Oscar Martin and the winger’s low drive was pushed wide of the right hand post by Mérida´s keeper Sergio. Moments later and Oscar Martin centered a cross for the unmarked Jonathon Torres and Lanzarote´s leading striker headed powerfully but straight into the keeper’s arms.
Mérida then began to show why they qualified for next seasons Copa Del Rey with their seventh placed finish. Both wingers Jandro and Ismael were causing problems for Lanzarote´s already fragile defence. In the 27th minute Ismael flew past three defenders and sent a delightful cross to the far post and Jandro laid back the ball to his striker who’s shot was tipped over by Lanzarote´s keeper Miguel.
Mérida were beginning to look dangerous with quick one touch football and quality passing. In the 39th minute a brilliant individual effort from Victor Bravo opened the scoring. The man who’s name sounds as though it’s from a military maneuver beat three defenders and rifled a powerful bending shot into the top right hand corner leaving keeper Miguel flapping at air. Correctly the Lanzarote fans applauded his effort.
The talented Oscar Martín
Toñito pulling a goal back for the Rojillos
Join us at the Sunday Teguise Market
May the dream live on!
WELCOME TO SEASON 2009-2010
8th August 2009
Apologies for the long summer break but here we are for another season following the trials and tribulations of U.D. Lanzarote.
During the summer the annual financial fiasco occurred with U.D. Lanzarote facing bankruptcy. A meeting with Lanzarote President Manuela Armas led to her understanding of the importance of keeping our island team in the Spanish third tier of football. For another season U.D. Lanzarote will be representing the island of Lanzarote in the Spanish mainland advertising itself to all within the country of Spain.
The two major sponsors for U.D. Lanzarote are the Cabildo De Lanzarote ( Island Council) and the Gobierno de Canarias (Canarian Govt) who contribute 150,000 and 180,000 respectively, other forms of income come from sponsorship, merchandising, ticket sales etc. All up the budget is around 450,000 but this amount is not solely for the first team, it is for all 10 teams, down to Pre Benjamin 6 year olds. No first team player can rely on a wage to support his family as 1000 Euros is expected to be the premium wage only paid to a handful of the more experienced players.
On the positive side, the club has only lost two first team regulars, the brilliant winger Oscar Martin who has yet to sign for a club but many mainland teams have shown an interest and likewise with centre back Adrian who has also decided to move on.
There will be some new faces which mainly come from local teams such as Maritima and Yaiza. An interest for British fans is whether Ian Robinson (Robbo) who is currently on trial with the club will finally get his chance. The speedy 21 year old from Barnsley impressed for Yaiza last season and his incredible pace will cause danger to any defence. The club has also vitally secured the signing of goalkeeper Floro who has spent many seasons in the mainland and following persistence by the club finally agreed to return.
The club President from last year and his board of Directors have hung up their boots and are now headed by José Domingo Machín as President. In the years 1989-1998 Machín was the President and brought the club up from Regional league to the third division and within the local community this has proved a popular decision.
The fixture list will be up and running in a couple of days, however, the league season begins at home on the 30th August versus Gran Canarian side Universidad. Other important home dates to put in your diary are Atlético Madrid B (23/9) Real Madrid B (29/11) and Stan Collymore´s old Primera Division side Real Oviedo (2/5).
The season tickets have been drastically reduced: Adults 80 Euros Pensioners 50 Euros and all children 15 years or under will be admitted free of charge. Season tickets are available from the club or from myself 928 843332 or mobile 649963943. To watch all 19 home games would therefore average just over four Euros per match. Gate prices have also been reduced: Adults 10 Euros, Pensioners 5 Euros and all Children 15 years or under are admitted free of charge.
THE FIXTURES ARE AS FOLLOWS:
Thurs 13th August Universidad v Alavés (kick off 9pm)
Friday 14th Lanzarote v Real Unión (kick off 9pm)
Saturday 15th Losers Final 6pm
Saturday 15th Winners Final 9pm
SAN GINES TOURNAMENT 13th-15th AUGUST
10th August 2009
U.D. Lanzarote won their opening two friendly games with a 2-1 win against Tinajo and a 5-0 thrashing of Hariathough the San Ginés tournament is very much likely to throw up a different class of team.
Ex Primera Liga side and UEFA Cup finalists Alavés
The San Ginés tournament consists of four teams, the winners of both matches will face each other in the final and the losers likewise. This season the big name team visiting Lanzarote are former Primera Liga side Alavés. Once a team including players such as Jordi Cruyff and Javi Moreno they have fallen on some hard times and following two relegations are now competing in the same standard of football as Lanzarote. Most people will associate Alavés with that classic UEFA Cup final against the mighty Liverpool in a 5-4 thriller only a few seasons ago.
Segunda A side (championship) Real Unión shown here celebrating last seasons giant killing win over Real Madrid
Maybe not as glamorous is Basque side Real Unión de Irún however this team is on a high. Last November in the Copa del Rey they lost the first leg tie to Real Madrid at the Bernabeu 4-3 but two weeks later famously beat the giants of Madrid 3-2 and went through on the away goals rule. To cap a fantastic season they were Champions of their division and will be playing their football this season in Spain’s second tier of football in Segunda A (championship).
Universidad de Las Palmas
The final team to join Lanzarote in the tournament is Universidad. The second largest team in the island of Gran Canaria have reached the play offs of Segunda B (league 1) various times over the past seasons and took four out of the six points available against Lanzarote last season.
Completing the foursome, The Mighty Lanzarote
The Gran Canarian side looked the brighter of the two sides and created by far the best opportunities of the first period and should of gone into the break at least two goals to the good.
The fallen giants of the Primera Liga came out for the second half with a far more positive attitude and on the hour mark the deadlock was broken. Good play down the right wing from Alavés led to an easy tap in for midfielder Geni.
Universidad came close to a leveler in the 75th minute when the popular ex Rojillo Gustavo García executed an excellent free kick powerfully into the danger zone only for Universidad´s forwards to squander yet another opportunity.
The class between the two sides was superbly demonstrated in the final minute of play. Fast and accurate one touch football had the Gran Canarian defence chasing shadows and sub Reguero waltzed through the penalty area and calmly planted the ball into the bottom right corner leaving keeper Lampón defenseless against a move worthy of the 5 Euro entrance fee alone.
ALAVÉS 2 UNIVERSIDAD 0
15th August 2009
The 2001 UEFA Cup finalists Alavés are the first team in the final of the San Ginés tournament following a professional second half performance after giving their opponents a lesson in the art of finishing.
The famous blue and white of Alavés showing their class in the second half.
LANZAROTE 0 REAL UNIÓN 0
(Real Unión win 4-3 on penalties)
U.D. Lanzarote should feel proud after a solid performance against their Segunda A (championship) counterparts and were within two spot kicks away of what would have been a fine victory.
Possession during the first period was equal and from both flanks the Rojillos (reds) were causing the newly promoted team difficulties. Ayoze Pérez operating down the left and new boy José Manuel flying down the right. The blond haired winger seems to be the find of the season and his runs down the wing eased the pressure on the Lanzarote defence as well drawing other defenders in as he passed through them with flying colours.
In the 25th minute Lanzarote were forced into a substitution when Sixto was forced off with a knee injury. This gave the first opportunity for Barnsley boy Ian Robinson (Robbo) to play in front of the home crowd. On a couple of occasions he showed the Lanzarote faithful his blistering pace which is sure to cause defenders problems throughout the season. Manager Carmelo Hernández has shown faith with the 21 year old which has secured the centre forward a contract and he is now proudly the first Englishman to wear the red and blue for his adopted home in Lanzarote´s first team. Unfortunately Robbo had to come off just before the hour due to a slight thigh strain.
In the second half Lanzarote had the best of the chances with a Maciot free kick forcing a good save from keeper Jauregui and Jotha firing just over. Ten minutes from time a shot from José Manuel was parried and Maciot was first to pounce but the keeper saved well from the veteran forward. The Lanzarote defence which has been questioned of late put in an inspired performance and debut boy Kamara looked calm and controlled in the heart of the Rojillo defence.
Segunda A side Real Unión through to the final of the San Ginés tournament
ALAVÉS 1 REAL UNIÓN 0
Once again the sharper of the two teams had had a days rest and with a squad of the quality of Alavés it should not be too long before the 2001 UEFA Cup finalists are playing their football in much grandeur stadiums.
Both sides played quality football but the defence of Alavés proved to be the difference. Without conceding in their two games with organized defending the blue and whites were always going to be favourites.
As the game wore on Alavés looked the better of the sides especially with the classy Dani Bouzas causing haoc with the Real Unión defence. In the 39th minute came the goal that proved to be the winner. Great work from full back Geni who dangerously pulled the ball back from the byline with an inch perfect pass to team mate Diego Segura. The striker made no mistake blasting low and hard past the hapless keeper Jaurgeui and sent his side 1-0 in front at the interval.
Early in the second period and Alavés were looking to kill off the game. With Real Unión tiring from the previous nights performance chances were beginning to appear for Alavés. Only seven minutes into the second half fabulous reflexes from Real´s keeper was the only thing preventing the scores being doubled after a strike from Geni.
The best opportunity for Real Unión came in the 74th minute. A free kick hurled into the area was nodded goal bound by sub Brit only for the Alavés number one to save well and push the ball away for a corner.
As the final minutes ticked by Real Unión began to lay siege in the Alavés goal mouth but still the blue and whites held firm and still looked the more dangerous on the counter attack. Alavés comfortably held on and claimed the 41st San Ginés trophy.
As for Real Unión. The Basque side had an unforgettable last season being champions of their division and knocking Real Madrid out of the Copa Del Rey but to survive in Spain’s silver league will be another almighty test. We wish you the best of luck.
LANZAROTE 2 UNIVERSIDAD 3
17th August 2009
Universidad de Las Palmas won the play off final and claimed third spot in the San Ginés tournament in temperatures touching the early thirties.
Universidad always had the advantage after a day break whereas Lanzarote had played less than 24 hours earlier. Both line ups were completely changed from the previous nights but with the Rojillos injury list piling up, players from the night before were on the bench as well as a couple of players brought in from other local clubs as emergency replacements.
The opening stages were even with most of the play in midfield. In the 18th minute after good work from Toñito who released the ever impressing left winger José Manuel. The new boy then turned his defender effortlessly and buried the ball past the Gran Canarian keeper.
Lanzarote´s left winger José Manuel giving his side a 1-0 lead
Ten minutes before the break and Universidad were level. An error by Ayoze Pérez losing possession on the edge of the area gifted the Gran Canarians a goal which was neatly tucked home by Nacho Quirino.
Three minutes after the half time interval and Universidad were 1-2 in front. After a goalmouth scramble winger Omar instincts were just ahead of Lanzarote´s keeper Miguel as he toe poked the ball home.
In the 72nd minute Maciot put the home side back on level terms but two minutes later ex Rojillo Gustavo García restored the lead for Universidad from a penalty even though keeper Miguel´s hand palmed the ball onto the post and in.
The game was filled with niggles and when both these teams meet on the opening fixture of the league season on the 30th August you can be sure there will be no love lost.
Ex Rojillo Gustavo García with the third and decisive goal for Universidad
The victorious Alavés squad
Man of the match Ángel sneaked round the back of the Lanzarote defence and with just keeper Floro to beat easily stroked the ball inside his right hand post to score the first of his four goals.
The Rojillo defence was playing high up the pitch and the Tenerife wingers were flying past the Lanzarote full backs and this proved to be the case with their second. In the 17th a cross from the right from Ayoze was comfortably met by Ángel for his and his sides second of the game. Ten minutes later and Ángel became provider for the impressive right winger Omar who made the score 3-0.
With under a half hour played and three goals down Lanzarote were facing humiliation. The defence then dug in deep and kept Tenerife at bay for the remainder of the half.
As expected Tenerife completely dominated proceedings in the second half and just before the hour mark Ángel completed his hat trick before adding his fourth and his teams fifth in the 77th minute.
The gap in class was evident. This was Tenerife’s first team and the majority of these players will be facing the likes of Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi in the coming weeks so Lanzarote should not be downhearted as the experience for the Rojillos should put them in good stead for the beginning of the season.
Tenerife will not feel this result is redemption for their biggest humiliation the club has suffered back in 2001 when the Rojillos thrashed the Primera Liga side 5-1 in the Copa Del Rey. At that time Tenerife were lying sixth in La Liga and were enjoying a good UEFA Cup run.
The Lanzarote players then ate dinner at midnight and were up at 5am to catch the flight back to Lanzarote and in that same evening were brought back down to reality when they comfortably beat local club San Bartolome 3-0.
TENERIFE 5 LANZAROTE 0
20th August 2009
For the first 50 seconds of the match Lanzarote were matching their Primera Liga counterparts but come to the end of that first minute and Lanzarote were one goal down to a Tenerife side that were looking for a goal feast.
(Left) Tenerife´s manager José Luis Oltra Castañer with Lanzarote´s manager Carmelo Hernández
The game ended as a fair draw but spot kicks had to follow as the final and play off final are played the following evening. As the scores were tied two a piece Real Unión hit the post with their third penalty giving the Rojillos the advantage. Toñito buried Lanzarote´s third leaving Miguel Yunes and Ayoze Pérez just having to convert to send Lanzarote to the final but the keeper saved both and Real Unión ran out 4-3 winners.
Lanzarote will meet Universidad in the Play off final at 6pm Saturday the 16th and at 9pm the same evening Alavés take on Real Unión in the San Ginés final.
The visitors began the better of the two sides and after only seven minutes striker Cristo Martin stole onto a poor cross field pass from Lanzarote’s front man Rosmen and released fellow striker Marrero with a one on one with Rojillos keeper Floro. The striker beat Floro but also beat the far post as the ball rolled inches wide.
As the season starts Lanzarote were without three of their more experienced defenders, Eliot, Santi Torres and Rúben Rodriguez. Debutants Faruk and Kamara put on an outstanding display and the latter was going to mark his debut with a brilliantly taken goal. A corner swung in by Ayoze Pérez was met perfectly by the defender as he angled his header into the far corner of the net giving his side a 1-0 lead.
Lanzarote began to settle into their stride and with Ex Real Madrid boy Jotha controlling most of the dealings in the centre of the park alongside Rojillos Captain Vladi Universidad were going to have to battle to take anything from this game.
Just before the break an in swinging corner from Ex Rojillo Gustavo Garcia was narrowly headed over by full back Ojeda but the Rojillos went into the interval with a narrow advantage.
In the opening minutes of the second period the Lanzarote keeper made a string of fine saves. The local boy from Tahiche is beginning to live up to the gossip on how good he is. Late last season this position was a big problem but with a couple of new keepers this position has taken care of itself.
Lanzarote were been kept on the back foot so any opportunity up front must be positive. In the 67th minute a cross from Jotha was handled by defender Soto and the referee ordered a spot kick. Maciot converted sending the keeper the wrong way and gave his side the valuable second goal cushion.
This two goal advantage lasted all of three minutes. A cross into the danger zone and defender Ojeda fell amidst a group of players and the referee pointed to the spot despite the pleading of innocence by the Lanzarote back four. Gustavo Garcia rarely makes any mistakes from dead ball situations and this was no exception as he passed the ball inside the left hand post with ease.
The Lanzarote faithful knew that they were in for a heart stopping final 20 minutes. As the final five minutes approached the onslaught intensified. Lanzarote were throwing all they had to keep the Gran Canarian side at bay. Subs Maikel Padron was given a straight red card and Toñito received his second yellow as Lanzarote clung on finishing the match with nine players.
This was a superb victory over the much fancied Universidad side and with the two new defenders Kamara and Faruk showing their class with the knowledge of having a top class goalkeeper behind them another problem area has been solved. Midfield duo Vladi and Jotha were outstanding in the centre and with new boys José Manuel terrorizing the right flank and with the big lad Rosmen holding the ball up well all looks good. Another option for Rojillos manager Carmelo Hernández which will soon be unleashed is the pace and tenacity of Barnsley boy Ian Robinson (Robbo).
LANZAROTE 2 UNIVERSIDAD 1
29th August 2009
Wow. What a start to a Season for the Rojillos. Going two goals up and then clinging on in the dying moments with only nine players for a morale boosting victory.
Maciot´s spot kick giving the Rojillos a 2-0 lead
Rojillos manager Carmelo Hernández kept faith with the same starting eleven that triumphed the week previous. From the opening whistle Toledo dominated proceedings. Lanzarote worked hard in midfield but were unable to feed Rosmen, the lone striker. In the 15th minute only a fine save from keeper Floro from the head of Toledo´s striker Guille kept Lanzarote from going a goal down.
In the first half Lanzarote offered little goal threat. A long distance strike from Jotha was inches away from giving Lanzarote a surprise but undeserved goal lead.
Five minutes before the break and Toledo were ahead. A precise pass from the left wing was controlled by the centre forward Guille, he neatly turned Rojillos centre back Faruk and shot low and under keeper Floro giving his side a 1-0 advantage to take into the break.
Lanzarote came out with a more positive attitude for the second half and their best opportunity fell to skipper Vladamir. From the edge of the area he blasted in a shot which hammered off Toledo´s crossbar and away to safety.
Toledo then again began to dominate and in the 86th minute the final nail in the coffin was hammered in by midfielder Joaqui giving his side a comfortable 2-0 win.
Manager Carmelo Hernández conceded defeat graciously admitting they were outplayed by a better side. With a crowd of four times the amount than what Lanzarote averages. Toledo, Puertollano, Real Oviedo and Lanzarote´s next opponents Guadalajara are expected to be pushing for promotion.
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TOLEDO 2 LANZAROTE 0
7th September 2009
Lanzarote were brought back down to Earth with an almighty bang against a Toledo side using their experience of playing in Spain’s silver league (championship) for seven years.
Captain and central midfielder for the Rojillos Vladamir coming closest by striking the woodwork
The visitors made their intent clear with a strike on goal within the first five seconds of the match. In the 5th minute striker Gustavo Souto blasted over from inside the six yard box. The Guadalajara striker was going to prove to be the thorn in the side of a shaky Lanzarote defence.
Moments later and Lanzarote almost took the lead. A volley from winger José Manuel from the edge of the box was brilliantly finger tipped away to safety by the impressive Nuñez in the Guadalajara goal. From the resulting corner a catastrophe occurred. Most of Lanzarote´s defence were up for the corner but Maciot played the ball short which was superbly read and intercepted by the visitors defence. Lanzarote had been caught and within seconds Gustavo Souta inflicted full punishment as he buried the ball past Lanzarote´s number one Floro giving his side a 0-1 lead.
The Rojillos winger José Manuel forced another good save from Nuñez in the 9th minute but five minutes later and Lanzarote were robbed of possession in the centre of the park, the ball was immediately distributed to the right wing to Rubén Cuesta and he instantly delivered an inch perfect cross to team mate Gustavo Souto who nodded home from five yards giving the Rojillos keeper no chance.
0-2 down and with the Lanzarote defence leaking like a burst pipe a moment of inspiration was needed. In the 22nd minute a thunderous 20 yard volley from Captain Vladamir flew in off the upright reducing the visitor’s advantage by 1-2. The remainder of the half was more subdued with no clear chances for either side.
Lanzarote dominated the second half and with the introduction of the temperamental striker Toñito a goal seemed certain in coming. The best of the chances occurred in the 70th minute. A perfectly weighted cross to the far post found the unmarked Toñito but the striker could not convert blasting over the bar from eight yards.
Lanzarote went in search of an equalizer and were leaving gaps at the back making it dangerous for a team of the strike quality of Guadalajara. Five minutes from time Gustavo Souta was brought down by keeper Floro and the striker looked odds on for his hat trick. His strike sent Floro the wrong way but at last his accuracy let him down as his low shot ran past the left hand post.
Lanzarote could not capitalize on their good fortune and after their second successive defeat see themselves slip down to 13th position. Next week Lanzarote travel to Madrid and face unbeaten Alcorcon.
LANZAROTE 1 GUADALAJARA 2
13th September 2009
Two enormous errors inside the opening 15 minutes gave Guadalajara their third consecutive victory confirming their status as one of the favorites for promotion.
Lanzarote were intent on improving on their defensive errors committed the previous week. The Madrid side dominated possession but the Lanzarote defense held firm and with keeper Floro in fine form a breakthrough for Alcorcon was going to prove difficult.
The Rojillos were level going into the break but in the second period the Alcorcon frontline kept up their bombardment and finally in the 70th minute the defense and keeper Floro were beaten.
In the closing minutes Floro saved a penalty but the rebound fell kindly for striker Borja who made no mistake with the follow up and Lanzarote were sentenced to another defeat.
Lanzarote will face the talent of the youth from Atlético Madrid B side this Wednesday evening at 8.30pm in Arrecife and will be searching for an end to this dismal run.
The early pace setters are Lanzarote´s victors from last week Guadalajara who made it four wins from four with a 3-1 win against Universidad and Leganés are second trailing by three points. The Rojillos slip to 15th with their three point tally.
ALCORCON 2 LANZAROTE 0
21st September 2009
U.D. Lanzarote suffer their third straight defeat by A.D. Alcorcon in a game where the Rojillos offered very little threat in the opponents final third.
Lanzarote keeper Floro given little chance with both goals
The youth of Atlético Madrid simply tore apart Lanzarote with players that will be pursuing their careers in Spain’s Golden league.
The Madrid side began the game the much brighter of the two sides as Lanzarote struggled to hold onto the ball. Lanzarote´s big man upfront Rosmen got drawn into the defence and therefore when the ball was cleared it came straight back. Lanzarote´s defence has come under much criticism lately but with the first line of defence being attack and with only three goals scored in five matches the back four are always under pressure which eventually will burst and leak goals.
The Conejeros (locals) incredibly weathered the storm and from the 20th minute entered into their best spell of the match. After five consecutive corners right back Ayoze Pérez fired in a shot from 20 yards but Atlético´s keeper Nacho saved well and parried away for another corner.
As the Rojillos were beginning to enjoy themselves, tragedy struck. The brilliant Congolese left winger Cedric was adjudged to having been tripped just inside the penalty area and the referee ordered a spot kick to the visitors. Lanzarote keeper Floro made a valiant attempt as the ball was blasted to his right but the strength of the shot proved sufficient as Floro got a good hand on the ball but only succeeded into pushing it onto the inside of the post and in.
Going into the break at only a goal down the Lanzarote crowd were still optimistic. Many of the Conejero crowd decided to stay at home and watch a full league programme including Real Madrid and Barcelona but many of the expats and tourists to the island decided to ignore the league cup matches and support the Rojillos which emphasized the importance of foreign fans.
Man of the match Cedric was constantly taunting the Lanzarote backline with his jinking runs. The young lad has already made one appearance for Atlético´s first team at the age of 16 and looks certain for a future in top flight football.
That optimism lasted till just over the hour mark. From a corner the tall and talented centre forward Ibrahim superbly headed his side into a two goal lead. Five minutes later and Lanzarote´s first ever British player Ian Robinson got his chance. Unfortunately for the Barnsley boy this was not going to be a memorable debut.
Up until this second goal Lanzarote looked as though they might be able to retrieve something from the game without seriously threatening Atlético´s keeper Nacho. Right winger Toñito never gave up on the cause and looked the most threatening player for the Rojillos. On many occasions the winger beat his left back and produced quality crosses but the Lanzarote forwards could not find a way through a very well organized Madrid defence. Four minutes after Robbo´s arrival and the visitors were 3-0 up. The usually faultless and composed centre back Kamara misjudged the run by the impressive midfielder Perea and with keeper Floro stranded he delicately chipped over to make certain of the outcome of the match.
LANZAROTE 0 ATLÉTICO MADRID B 4
24th September 2009
It is extremely difficult to determine whether the quality of teams Lanzarote have faced has been above average or simply the Rojillos are way out of their depth. Lanzarote were taught a lesson in the art of passing, control, keeping possession, finishing and about anything positive you can do on a football park for 90 minutes yet again.
The superb talent of Atlético Madrids youth
Sub Borja Gonzalez completed the rout in the final minute. Lanzarote were sentenced to their fourth consecutive defeat with this four nil morale destroying defeat and are now in the final relegation position, fourth from bottom. The number four does not seem to be Lanzarote´s lucky number.
Up next for the Rojillos is a worrying away match against Real Racing B. The third placed side has yet to concede a goal at home and Lanzarote are yet to score away, though Lanzarote can live in the hope that football has a tendency of turning a form book on its head and this is probably why we all love it so much.
Only five games gone and The Rojillos Gaffer Carmelo Hernández fingernails are down to the bare minimum
Racing took only six minutes to open the scoring. Striker Luisma´s shot deflected off a Rojillo defender and past the helpless Lanzarote keeper Floro. The early goal sprang life into a nervous Lanzarote side and the Rojillos began to look more comfortable especially in central midfield.
Just as Lanzarote were beginning to flourish Racing scored their second on the half hour and totally destroyed any confidence that the Rojillos had left. Luisma beat his defender and crossed the ball dangerously across penalty area and fellow striker Sergio Canales gratefully blasted home from eight yards.
In added on time Lanzarote had a couple of good chances to reduce the deficit, the best of which came from Ayoze Pérez whose header was deflected away for a corner and Santi Torres who was just beaten to the ball by a defender in the six yard box with the goal gaping. Lanzarote went into the half time break a little unlucky to be two goals down.
Lanzarote came out for the second half with a much more aggressive attitude. José Manuel began to look more himself flying down the left wing but unfortunately the Lanzarote strike force were unable to finish the good work created by the winger.
Racing´s goalkeeper Mario Fernández was now the busier of the two keepers and made several timely interventions preventing the Rojillos gaining a foot hold in the game. Manager Carmelo Hernández switched tactics at the break and Lanzarote were playing with an attacking midfield with wingers on both flanks and strikers Miguel Yunes and Rosmen up front. Unfortunately with all this possession the Rojillos could not increase on their three goals scored in the opening six games of the season.
Lanzarote pushed forward and in doing so left their defence bare. In the 75th minute midfielder José Picón crossed to the far post and Sergio Canales buried the ball low into the goal scoring his second of the day and securing his side’s 3-0 home win and moving his team up to second in the table.
Lanzarote are now second from bottom and the next two games are critical. First is at home versus Conquense who are three points and three places above the Rojillos and the following week an away match against bottom club Cacereño.
Victory on opening day of the season on the 30th of August is now a distant memory as reality has set in. September has been awful. Five games played with only one goal scored and not a point on the board reminding Lanzarote this is going to be a long and painful season.
Carmelo Hernández has a tough job on his hands but only two things are needed. Restoring confidence and finding someone who can stick the ball between the sticks. Easier said than done when you are playing the best of Spain’s youth players who are hungry for the nod of a first team call up.
RACING SANTANDER B 3 LANZAROTE 0
28th September 2009
Its five out of five for U.D. Lanzarote. A record they will certainly not be proud of, suffering their fifth consecutive league defeat, this time to Real Racing´s Primera Liga sides B team.
Ayoze Pérez coming closest as the Rojillos slip to their 5th consecutive defeat
In the 7th minute the Lanzarote keeper failed to communicate with his centre back Faruk about the lack of danger as the ball was hoisted towards the edge of the box. Faruk decided to blast the ball away and mishit his clearance straight to Conquense’s striker Oscar Silva. The striker beat the defender and from the edge of the box shot low and the ball travelled tamely under keeper Floro to put his side into a 0-1 lead. The Lanzarote number one will be bitterly disappointed.
Lanzarote winger Toñito had a good effort blocked in the 16th minute but ten minutes later following another good run was tripped inside the area and a clear cut penalty decision was awarded. Surprisingly the man in black did not produce a red card as the Rojillos winger was clean through. The Lanzarote big man Rosmen stepped up and nervously stroked the ball towards the right hand corner but keeper Sebas read his moves and saved. The rebound fell to Ayoze Pérez and from three yards he managed to belt the ball high and over into the neighboring car park.
Lanzarote were now dominant and great combination play from captain Vladamir and Toñito gave Rúben Rodriguez a chance from ten yards and the midfielder shot accurate but just failed with power as the visitors keeper again saved well.
In the 36th minute Toñito was brought down by two defenders on the edge of the area. Rúben Rodriguez curled the ball around the wall and saw his terrific effort rebound off the woodwork.
The game completely turned on its head two minutes from half time in a double disaster. An off the ball incident involving Lanzarote defender Santi Torres who was adjudged by the referee of elbowing his opponent. The ref awarded a penalty and gave the defender a red card. Conquense striker Santa Cruz demonstrated to the Lanzarote forward how a penalty should be taken by fiercely striking the ball into the left hand corner giving keeper Floro no chance and gave his side a shock 0-2 lead.
If you were to think things couldn’t get worse you would be wrong. Moments before half time a bizarre but fair challenge by two players giving 100 per cent, colliding foot to foot in a knee height challenge saw both sommersault, leaving them flat out on the astro turf grasping for air. The Conquense midfielder rose after a couple of minutes but Lanzarote’s playmaker Jotha was still out for the count and stretchered off with a neck and foot injury.
LANZAROTE 1 CONQUENSE 3
5th October 2009
The teams began the day with Conquense 5th from bottom and Lanzarote 2nd from bottom and both teams looked nervous in the opening minutes.
Two guilty men
(left) Rosmen with a poor penalty (right) Ayoze Peréz blasting over with the goal at his mercy
The Lanzarote 10 men came out for the second half inspired. Manager Carmelo Hernández had brought on Englishman Ian Robinson and just
before the hour mark the Barnsley boy had a chance to reduce the deficit but unfortunately his effort from 10 yards was pushed away for a corner. From the resulting clearance from the corner sub José Manuel won the ball and unleashed a 25 yard missile into the bottom left hand corner and gave his side hope with the 1-2 score line.
The Rojillos can be proud of their fighting display but with temperatures in the mid 30´s and a man less, tiredness took its toll. In the 73rd minute a counter attack caught the Lanzarote defence off guard. A low cross to the near post was met by striker Martins inches ahead of the keeper and the Conquense forward chipped the grounded keeper guaranteeing his side three priceless away points and condemned the Rojillos to a morale battering six straight losses.
Nevertheless for entertainment value the game was a spectacle and a bargain at only 10€.
Next week Lanzarote travel to the only club lower than themselves in the league, Cacereño, in an already relegation six pointer.
Adding to the misery Lanzarote playmaker Jotha stretchered off seconds before the interval
The Rojillos played a similar system to their previous away defeats which has not seen them score a single goal by packing the midfield and with one man up front. One must have sympathy for manager Carmelo Hernández as his choices are limited but surely it is now time to start defending from the front and play with two forwards.
Cacereño which is around 100 km from the border of Portugal were on the scoreboard on the quarter of an hour mark. A penalty awarded for a dubious foul by Rúben Rodriguez which was clearly outside of the area was not the best start for the Rojillos. Diego slotted the ball home and the hosts were in front.
Lanzarote did enjoy an equal amount of possession but very rarely looked like threatening the opponent’s goal. Four minutes before the half time break and Cacereño went 2-0 up. A shot from midfielder Rocha caught Lanzarote replacement keeper Ruymán by surprise and Lanzarote were two down at the break.
Fifteen minutes into the second half and Cacereño were awarded their second penalty of the day with Lanzarote keeper bringing down Rocha. Striker Valtierra converted and Lanzarote were three down before the hour.
The Rojillos began to get frustrated and received a string of yellow cards, then in the 79th minute centre back Faruk badly gave away a third penalty, received his second yellow card and again the Rojillos were forced to finish the match with only 10 men. Sub Rai made the score 4-0 as Lanzarote were made to suffer another 10 minutes.
Five minutes from time and sub Esteve completed the rout ensuring a depressing long journey home for Lanzarote. Next week Lanzarote face a daunting home match versus in form Sporting Gijón B. The Primers Liga´s B side are sure to be confident of achieving their third straight win on the bounce.
CACEREÑO 5 LANZAROTE 0
13th October 2009
U.D. Lanzarote have hit rock bottom. Thrashed by the team who prior to this match were propping up the league. The facts and figures don’t lie. Played eight. Won one, lost seven, scored four goals and conceded twenty two. Result; bottom of the league.
Faruk, responible for Cacerños third penalty and picking up his second yellow card
Only five minutes later and with the Rojillos in top gear, defender Kamara received a straight red card for causes unknown and again Lanzarote were forced to play the final half hour in scorching heat and a cloudless sky with only 10 men. The unfortunate Englishman had to be sacrificed after only 15 minutes as defender Francis replaced Kamara.
Both teams still went in search of the full three points. In the 66th minute Rojillos defender Santi Torres headed off the line and Lanzarote´s inspirational Captain Vladi who does not understand the meaning of defeat was chasing, tackling and creating the best chances for the home side.
Three minutes from time and Sporting scored what they believed to be the winner. A long ball was tidily chested down by sub Landeira and in one movement guided the ball out of the reach of Ruymán and into the bottom left hand corner.
Deep into stoppage time and a long ball was hoisted into the corner of the box, Rosmen nodded the ball over to the far post and Vladi on the sprint, got that all important toe onto the ball steering it into the back of the net to give his side their first point in eight matches.
It may only be a point but the heart and guts showed by an under pressure side was there for all to see. Vladamir was exceptional and it seems a crime that he is not playing his football at a higher level. Toñito and Rúben both gave 100 per cent and striker Rosmen put in his best performance wearing a Lanzarote shirt. Next week Lanzarote travel and face the B side of Tenerife.
LANZAROTE 3 SPORTING GIJÓN B 3
19th October 2009
Los Rojillos showed superb character by at first clawing back a two goal deficit then finding a dramatic 93rd minute equalizer with only 10 men.
Whose your money on to win the ball?
An inspirational performance by Captain Vladimir
Lanzarote displayed their fighting spirit in a highly entertaining six goal thriller. The Primera Liga’s B team was only seconds away from victory which would have pushed them up to second place in the league table.
Lanzarote began the match looking far the more positive side and the big front man Rosmen came close with a header in the 5th minute and only two minutes later had a glorious chance to open his goal scoring account for the season but from seven yards goalkeeper Dani Lavianna saved well with his feet.
In the 17th minute a good cross swung in from the right by Rosmen was well read by Toñito who controlled the ball instantly and unleashed a drive heading for the right hand corner but a last gasp block by a defender prevented the Rojillos from taking a deserved lead.
Typically, with chances not been taken Sporting Gijón punished Lanzarote to the full. In the 19th minute a free kick dangerously swung in from the left wing was not dealt with by the defence or claimed by the goalkeeper and at the far post striker Portilla chested his side into a 0-1 lead.
Ten minutes later and Lanzarote were in free fall. A clearance by Gijón’s keeper caught Lanzarote’s centre backs dreaming and winger Jorge neatly chipped Lanzarote’s keeper Ruymán to make the score 0-2 and left the Conejeros (locals) with another mountain to climb.
Four minutes before the break and midfielder Rúben Rodriguez turned his defender and was tripped giving Lanzarote a penalty. The same player took the spot kick and fiercely drove the ball low into the right hand corner reducing the score 1-2 and giving his side a lifeline to take into the half time break.
Manager Carmelo Hernández brought on Englishman Ian Robinson to add to his attacking force a minute into the second half and Lanzarote began to dominate possession. Sporting still looked dangerous on the counter and a great run by winger Jorge who fired in a low, hard cross and was only inches away from finding his strike partner Pablo Acebal.
In the 54th minute good work from right back Kamara and the ever alert Toñito who produced a stunning cross in which Rosmen rose tallest and powerfully headed into the roof of the net leveling the scores at two apiece.
Rosmen levelling the scores at 2-2
Los Rojillos looked good from the start and in only the 5th minute a superb run from Rúben Rodriguez who skinned his defender and pulled the ball back for Rosmen, his 5 yard side foot came back off the bar but the tall striker fired in the rebound and claimed his second goal of the season and put his side into unfamiliar territory by leading a game of football.
If the Primera Liga´s sides B team thought they were up against a side low on confidence they were mistaken as Lanzarote played the ball around the park with ease and looked as though they were league leaders rather than propping up the table. Lanzarote dominated the remainder of the half but failed to create anything clear cut whereas their opponents only threat came from set pieces as the score remained 0-1 at the break.
In the opening minutes of the second period Tenerife gained control of possession as the Rojillos were gradually pinned back. Ten minutes into the second half and a clear push by Lanzarote´s centre back Faruk on striker Ramón resulted in a penalty for the Blanquiazules (blue and whites). Midfielder Airán Cabrera sent keeper Floro the wrong way by sticking the ball into the right hand corner leveling the scores at one apiece.
Tenerife then decided to go for the kill moving their left and right back forward and playing with three centre backs. To combat this Rojillos manager Carmelo Hernández switched from 4-4-2 to 4-5-1 and packed the midfield. Lanzarote were under pressure but the defence was confident and held firm.
On the counter attack in the 64th minute the Rojillos restored their lead. Man of the match Rúben Rodriguez went on a scintillating run racing past defenders and laid the ball back on a plate for sub José Manuel and for the second consecutive week the gifted winger came off the bench two minutes previous and scored from close range.
Five minutes later and Rúben Rodriguez had run himself into the ground was replaced by Barnsley boy Ian Robinson. As a unit the Rojillos defended stoutly but in the 88th minute a corner for Tenerife was swung in and defender Moreno climbed all over Rosmen and headed high into the right hand corner and the score was 2-2.
This infuriated the Rojillos as a blatant foul was ignored. Lanzarote then played the remaining minutes on the attack and were unlucky not to take the lead for a third time.
This can still be viewed as a good away point but Lanzarote can be disappointed to have not claimed all three. The good news is that the Rojillos have now found the net five times in their last two outings which is one more than their opening eight matches.
Ex Rojillo Oscar Martín has been in fine form since his arrival in Tenerife and in time a Primera Liga debut could be on the cards. Against his former club thankfully he had a quieter game. An improvement is noticeable over recent weeks but points at home are critical. Lanzarote remain bottom though next week the Rojillos are at home and take on Cerro Reyes (formerly Badajoz) who are only one place above Lanzarote.
TENERIFE B 2 LANZAROTE 2
26th October 2009
U.D. Lanzarote were within two minutes of securing their first away win of the season, however they did gain their first away point in a good performance against their island rivals.
Outstanding game for Rúben Rodruguez supplying the assists for both goals
In the 11th minute the side from Badajoz took the lead. A cross from the left to the far post was nodded back into the danger zone and striker Enzo powerfully volleyed in from five yards whilst the Lanzarote centre backs watched in amazement.
Ten minutes on and the visitors doubled their lead. A poor cross from the left crept through the fragile defence of Lanzarote and midfielder Parra found the ball at his feet. Not believing his luck and the generosity of Lanzarote’s back four he simply stuck the ball past the helpless Lanzarote keeper Floro.
Things could of got a lot worse for the Rojillos in the 33rd minute when centre back Faruk was beaten to a header and the Cerro Reyes striker was left alone with just the keeper to beat. Lanzarote’s number one stood tall and palmed away the effort giving his side some hope.
Without Lanzarote’s inspirational Captain Vlad,i through suspension, it was difficult to see any way back into this match as the first half came to an end with Lanzarote trailing 0-2.
Fifteen minutes after the break and the visitors were on the offensive. A cross from the right was headed with power by the head of José Cayodo though just lacked the accuracy as keeper Floro watched the ball fly inches past his left hand post.
Lanzarote brought on Echedey at half time replacing the out of sorts José Manuel and the youngster hit a powerful drive from 30 yards but keeper Arturu saved with ease.
In the 70th minute Manager Carmelo Hernández used his last throw of the dice by introducing Ian Robinson. Ten minutes later and the Barnsley boy chased a ball that was never his but with his incredible pace got to the ball first and was brought down by defender Gabi. After receiving his second yellow card and his marching orders Lanzarote had a sniff and hurled everyone up front.
In the 89th minute and after intense pressure the Rojillos got their reward. A free kick on the right was nodded home by Sub Francis and Lanzarote were in search of a point.
In the second minute of added on time Englishman Robbo had a dream opportunity of earning Lanzarote an undeserved point and being the hero but his header flew inches over.
Next week Lanzarote face a daunting trip to Puertollano. The side from La Mancha region of Spain is fresh from their heroics against Primera Liga side Villareal in a 1-1 draw in the Copa Del Rey. The Ex Arsenal superstar and birthday boy Robert Pires spared the blushes of the La Liga side with a leveler in the 65th minute. Puertollano were not the only side in Lanzarote´s league to pull off heroics in the cup, Alcorcon caused one of the biggest cup shocks ever when they thrashed giants Real Madrid 4-0. Ironically Lanzarote play host to Alcorcon in just a few weeks which emphasizes the quality of this Division.
LANZAROTE 1 CERRO REYES AT 2
2nd November 2009
Groundhog Day again for U.D. Lanzarote as they go two nil down within the first 20 minutes and remain rooted at the foot of Segunda B (league 1) six points adrift of safety.
The Rojillos began well with midfielder Jotha hitting a sweet volley from 20 yards unfortunately straight into the arms of the Reyes goalkeeper. Toñito was playing with spirit, always attacking the full backs and in the 4th minute had a goal bound shot blocked by a defender. That was as good as it got for Lanzarote in the opening half.
Lanzarote´s best performer Toñito in an othervise dismal display
If Lanzarote believed that Puertollano were going to take this game easy in order to have a full squad for their midweek Copa Del Rey match against Primera Liga side Villareal, the Rojillos were sorely mistaken.
Lanzarote created very little throughout the match and the game was effectively over in the 5th minute when a free kick from midfielder Marcos Valdés beat keeper Floro to give his side the lead.
The score remained 1-0 at the break with Lanzarote just being restricted to one long range effort from striker Rosmen.
The Rojillo defence remained firm for a large part of the match but with the constant pressure it was only a matter of time till the side from just below central Spain was to double their lead.
In the 72nd minute sub Acorán scored the second. The sub picked up the ball on the left wing and easily turned his defender and planted a shot wide of Floro making the game safe for Puertollano.
With the home sides minds now fixed on their mouthwatering return leg against Villareal they began to rest a couple of players. Lanzarote old boy Brenes came on with 15 minutes remaining for a run to prepare himself for the Cup match. Puertollano drew 1-1 with Villareal 10 days ago and this was ideal preparation for one of their most important matches in their clubs history.
Another substitute Ortiz rounded off a bad day for Lanzarote in added on time by chipping the Rojillos keeper to earn his side a deserved 3-0 win and push his side to within two points of the play offs.
Lanzarote now face a home match next Sunday against fellow strugglers Alcala.
PUERTOLLANO 3 LANZAROTE 0
9th November 2009
Lanzarote keeper Floro beaten for a third time
On another scorching November day with temperatures peaking at around 30 degrees the Rojillos (reds) went about their business in a determined manner. A solid defensive back four with an imaginative midfield and a tireless frontline, combined with a major impact from the two substitutes, gave the Rojillos a deserved victory.
In the opening minutes both sides were nervous and instead of passing short balls, the Hoof up the field proved to be the preferred option. Lanzarote were the first to threaten. A fine ball from midfielder Maikel Padrón to the left wing was met by the ever alert Toñito. The winger skinned his full back and cut the ball back from the byline neatly to the young striker Echedey. The 21 year old did well to find the space but his scuffed effort was easily dealt with by the Alcalá keeper Rubén Martín.
The visitors best opportunity of the first half fell to centre back Joselou. The defender found himself with a free header from a corner just past the half hour mark that narrowly flew past the far post. The Rojillos main threat was down whichever flank Toñito was. In the 35th minute the winger, this time, roasted the left back and blasted the ball low into the danger zone only for a defender to slide in and guide the ball away to safety with Echedey waiting to pounce inside the six yard box.
Lanzarote´s priority for this first half was not to let the opposition score, a feat they have only completed once this term which was on the opening match of the season in a game they went on and secured their only other win.
The game remained scoreless at the break and the home fans egged on by the clubs Mascot (a huge rabbit) felt positive about the second half.
Fifteen minutes after the restart and that positivness flew straight out the window. A corner for the Madrid side was swung in from the left and following a goalmouth scramble the ball was eventually blasted home from close range by sub Moya.
In the 68th minute the game was going to change with the introduction of the Barnsley boy Ian Robinson. The striker didn’t give the Alcalá defence a second to dwell on the ball winning possession in the opponents final third and gave the ignition that the Rojillos were so desperately searching for.
In the 73rd minute a cross from the left by Vladi destined for the head of the Englishman as he made his run into the six yard box took the tinniest of deflections and unfortunately for Robbo, the ball had too much pace on it to adjust his position in time and the chance went begging.
Two minutes on and Lanzarote were level in spectacular fashion. Robbo stole the ball in the midfield and fed fellow sub Ayoze Pérez on the left wing. The local lad then turned his defender one way then the other and unleashed a dipping swerving shot from 20 yards which smashed the underside of the bar and settled into the back of the net.
LANZAROTE 2 ALCALÁ 1
16th November 2009
Lanzarote have won. It may have taken over 1000 minutes of football but finally that 12 game streak without a win has finally been broken.
The starting line up with the clubs new mascot
With the score now 1-1 Lanzarote were intent on victory. Five minutes from time and Robbo was in the thick of things again. A ball swept in from the left was controlled by the Barnsley lad leaving the defender to launch into an unfair challenge. The referee was ready to blow for a penalty but the official waited a moment and what a good decision it proved to be. So often the hero, Lanzarote´s Captain Vladi came thundering in with a volley beating the Madrid keeper and sending the home fans into unfamiliar territory by taking the lead in a match.
A nervous five minutes plus added time awaited the Rojillos but at the final whistle the relief from the players and fans was hugely evident. No change in the table for U.D. Lanzarote, they are firmly rooted to the bottom but have reduced the deficit for safety from relegation from eight to five points.
Next week Lanzarote travel to Madrid and face Leganés followed by the biggest game of the season at home versus the B team of Real Madrid. Unfortunately I will not be able to produce a report of the match next week due to me being a kind and generous human being as well as one of life’s true romantics. I have purchased my wife a ticket to see her family in Sweden for her birthday and she is the computer wizard of the family and uploads the website. Myself and two Children will remain here where I shall be learning the art of modesty.
If anyone wishes to have next weeks report versus Leganés emailed to them let me know next Sunday.
An inspired substitution, Barnsley boy Robbo putting himself about and involved in both goals
The only thing Lanzarote came home with are re-newed friendships. Toñito with ex-Rojillo Anibal
The Rojillos began the game well. A long pass from Rúben Rodriguez was neatly controlled by Toñito, the winger then beat his marker but his shot fell straight into the arms of the Leganés goalkeeper Raúl Moreno.
The Madrid side then began to use both wingers on either flank which opened the defence of the Rojillos. In the 10th minute ex Rojillo Anibal Zurdo fired in a shot from the edge of the area and Rojillos keeper did well fisting away to safety.
Minutes later and Lanzarote had a great shout for a penalty. Striker Rosmen controlled the ball inside the box and a Leganés defender handled but unfortunately the official was unsighted and waved play on.
In the 23rd minute the home side was in front. Following a series of poor clearances defender Faruk tracked Carlos Martinez and the midfielder seemed to slip. The Ref surprised all the players and the 1500 crowd by ordering a spot kick. The midfielder rose from the deck and converted the penalty to send his side into a 1-0 lead.
The Rojillos heads did not drop as has happened in previous matches and began to enjoy the majority of the ball. In the 26th minute Toñito broke down the left wing but again his strike was too weak to test the Leganés keeper.
Five minutes later and the Rojillos deservedly drew level. A corner from the left was swung in and the Madrid defence seemed reluctant to clear, the ball fell kindly to striker Echedey who made no mistake blasting in his first goal for Lanzarote.
Moments later and the Rojillos could have been 2-1 down. A long ball was hoisted deep into Lanzarote territory and Lanzarote keeper Floro hesitated for a moment which allowed midfielder Juli to reach the ball first, he succeeded in chipping over the advanced keeper but fortunately for the Rojillos his effort also cleared the bar sparing the blushes of Lanzarote´s number one as the score line remained at stalemate one apiece going into the break.
Man of the match Carlos Martinez looked the most influential for Leganés. On the hour mark a good strike from distance by the danger man flew just wide. Five minutes on and the same player centered a cross to team mate Gustavo Miguel but his effort was easily saved by Floro.
The Madrid team enjoyed the majority of possession without causing much threat but in the 75th minute Carlos Martinez crossed in from the right and the ball was headed into the far post by Sub Quini leaving Floro flat footed and with no chance of saving the well angled header and Lanzarote found themselves 2-1 down.
A few minutes later a superb run by José Manuel flying threw various defenders ended with the winger crashing down inside the box. The Ref ignored the pleas of all of the Lanzarote players for a penalty as Leganés drew a sigh of relief.
With two minutes left on the clock the home side was reduced to ten men as striker Iván Zarandona received his second yellow card. From the resulting free kick the ball was passed short for Ayoze Pérez who struck the ball with venom only to see his effort fly inches wide as did Lanzarote´s chances of getting anything from the game.
Next Sunday Lanzarote play their most attractive game of the season against the B team of Real Madrid in Arrecife at 11am. The all whites have been struggling recently and have only won once in their last nine outings and this always seems to be an encounter which produces goals.
Guadalajara remain top following a 1-3 away win and Alcorcon spurred on by their demolition of Real Madrid in the Copa Del Rey move up into fourth position occupying the final play off spot after a 0-1 away win against Tenerife B.
LEGANÉS 2 LANZAROTE 1
23rd November 2009
U.D. Lanzarote once again fail to increase on their solitary point picked up on their travels this season despite a gutsy performance in Madrid.
In the 15th minute a corner whipped in low and hard was met by youngster Luis Hernández and his glancing header at the near post combined with the pace of the ball left the Lanzarote keeper with no chance and the B team of Real Madrid were 0-1 up. Once again horrendous defending from set pieces have left Lanzarote with the worst defensive record in the league conceding 39 goals in only 15 games.
In fairness Lanzarote began to gather their composer and started to join the tempo of the match. In the 22nd minute a cross swung in from the left was powerfully headed by Lanzarote’s big striker Rosmen but unfortunately his effort flew inches over when he really should have done better.
In the 28th minute Lanzarote lost possession in the centre of the park to the goal scorer Luis Hernández, his defence splitting pass released striker Juan Carlos who rounded the Rojillos keeper and coolly slotted the ball home giving his side a comfortable 0-2 lead.
Ten minutes before the break and the Rojillos were handed a lifeline when midfielder Maikel Padrón was brought down by defender Nacho just inside the box and the Catalan Ref ordered a spot kick. Rubén Rodriguez blasted home and the Rojillos were back in the match as the score remained at 1-2 till half time.
Just under10 seconds into the second half and the hope from Lanzarote’s faithful was shattered. Striker Juan Carlos immediately broke through the dormant defence of the Conejeros, and with the echo of the Refs whistle still ringing in our ears stroked the ball wide of the Lanzarote keeper and into the corner of the net restoring his sides two goal cushion at 1-3.
Things got worse. In the 53rd minute Lanzarote’s temperamental winger Toñito reacted to some shirt pulling and raised his hands to the face of his opponent and as customary in Spanish football the boy fell quicker than a sack of spuds. The Ref showed Toñito red and Lanzarote were forced to play with the remainder of the match with only 10 men.
Four minutes on and the mountain Lanzarote already had to climb exploded with volcanic force as the B team of Real Madrid scored their fourth of the day. Madrid striker Cristian beat off a weak challenge from centre back Faruk and neatly placed his shot wide of keeper Floro to give his side a 1-4 advantage.
Battling away in midfield for Lanzarote was Captain Vladi and his never say die spirit winning challenges egged on his team mates and forced Madrid to retreat. In the 69th minute Maikel Padrón blasted a low drive from the edge of the area which was blocked. The ball rebounded back to the midfielder and he fired in a similar effort which made its way through the crowd of players and even though the Madrid keeper got a hand to it, it was not enough as the ball crawled over the line leaving the score line at 2-4.
Lanzarote piled on the pressure and in the 74th minute a surging run from ex Real Madrid player Jotha ended when he was tripped two yards outside the box. Dead ball specialist Rubén Rodriguez curled a left footer around the wall and into the top left hand corner making the score 3-4. A beauty! Again the impossible was on.
There is no doubt that the introduction of Englishman Ian Robinson on the hour mark when the score was 1-4 contributed immensely to this fight back. The Barnsley boy will chase everything and closes down defenders creating errors and his speed terrifies the opposition. He is a great weapon to have but the Lanzarote management must learn to shoot this weapon before their prey gets too far away to become a target.
Many of the Lanzarote supporters had left on the hour mark which was extremely disappointing. One learns from a very young age that the only time a game is over is when the Ref blows. These supporters missed a great finale and five minutes from time a cross from the left from Lanzarote’s man of the match Rubén Rodriguez found the head of sub Ayoze Pérez and the midfielder headed powerfully but only into the arms of Madrid keeper Adam. That proved to be the last effort of note for the Rojillos in the match.
It may well be a spirited fight back but there are no points gained for that. The Rojillos remain bottom and have slipped to eight points from safety. Next week Lanzarote fly to Madrid then another flight to Northern Spain to the Santander region and will play fifth placed side Torrelavega.
LANZAROTE 3 REAL MADRID B 4
30th November 2009
As customary it was another scorching hot day as the Rojillos (reds) found themselves two goals down before the half hour mark. At 1-4 down and with only 10 men Lanzarote made an extraordinary fight of it and were only a whisker away from stealing a point.
Real Madrids youth (if you wish your child to appear as a mascot, let me know)
It wasn’t an ideal start for the Rojillos with central defender Francis being carried off in the opening two minutes with an ankle injury. Manager Carmelo Hernández had the unenviable job of restructuring his already fragile defence with the game in its infancy.
Seconds later and a swift move from the youth of Real Madrid saw the ball thunder off the underside of the bar and the defence of Lanzarote desperately scrambled the ball away to safety giving Lanzarote ample warning of things to come.
The future superstars of Real Madrid looked impressive with their fast, accurate passing and off the ball movement that had the Conejeros (locals) chasing shadows and it looked inevitable the breakthrough for the all whites would come soon.
Rubén Rodriquez firing Lanzarote back into the game
The Rojillos, who are used to playing their football in tropical conditions did not acclimatize themselves well and within 15 minutes found themselves 2-0 down. The first was in the ninth minute. A harmless ball delivered into the 18 yard box left the Rojillos defence hesitant and striker Dani Cobo gratefully accepted the free gift and blasted his side into a 1-0 lead. Six minutes later and Lanzarote keeper Floro could only parry a shot from the edge of the area and centre forward Collado simply passed the ball into the open net from close range.
In the 38th minute Collado broke through the Lanzarote defence for the umpteenth time and neatly set up team mate Nando who buried the ball past Floro and sent his team into the half time break with an unassailable 3-0 lead.
Rojillos manager Carmelo Hernández brought on some width for the second half with wingers José Manuel and Ayoze Pérez both being introduced replacing Santi Torres and Maikel Padrón. Lanzarote began to press forward and held the majority of possession early in the second half though this only led the home side to produce deadly counter attacks.
In the 53rd minute Torrelavega were awarded a penalty with defender Ángel Gil bringing down the talented Collado inside the area. The Rojillos keeper saved well from the strike by defender Siro which gave Lanzarote just a glimmer of false hope.
That glimmer was extinguished on the hour mark and in the 77th minute strikes from Collado and Cursi finished the rout and the Rojillos then faced a long and tiring trip back to Lanzarote.
This win pushes Gimnástica Torrelavega into third in the table and on course for Segunda A (championship) football. This battering leaves the Rojillos shipwrecked somewhere off the coast of North Africa and a million miles from safety.
On the positive side they will be returning to blue skies and temperatures in the mid 20´s with the sea being a very pleasant 22 degrees.
Next week Lanzarote play at home to the much improved Badajoz side Villanovense.
GIMNÁSTICA TORRELAVEGA 5 LANZAROTE 0
7th December 2009
Lanzarote were once again torn apart by a far superior team on a wet, cold and windy day in the top North of Spain and for the second time this season conceded five goals.
Keeper Floro and defender Ángel Gil can only look on in dismay on a miserable day in northern Spain
In the 5th minute a wasted throw by right back Kamara was chased by the ever eager Maciot. He chased round the back of a Villanovense defender and not only kept the ball in play but laid the ball on for winger Toñito to fire in a dangerous cross, steaming into the far post and only six yards out was left winger José Manuel who fluffed his volley and the chance had gone.
The Conejeros (locals) made no mistake with their second opportunity of the match. In the 7th minute Rubén Rodriguez drilled in a cross from the left and the much improved tall striker Rosmen rose tallest and headed Lanzarote into unfamiliar territory by taking the lead in a match. 1-0 to the Rojillos.
LANZAROTE 2 VILLANOVENSE 1
14th December 2009
U.D. Lanzarote has won their last home game of the year which will give them hope for the battle of survival which lies ahead.
The Rojillos began the game well and were boosted by the return of the experience and class of possibly Lanzarote’s best ever player, striker Maciot.
A welcome return from injury for striker Maciot
In the 14th minute the Rojillos were a whisker away from doubling their advantage. A corner from Toñito was tipped onto the bar by the keeper and Maciot´s follow up header struck the far post.
Lanzarote’s front line looked dangerous on every attack and even right back Kamara had a good effort from 20 yards saved well by the Villanovense keeper in the 25th minute.
Good one touch football instigated by central midfielders Vladi and Jotha made Lanzarote look at ease with the ball. On one such occasion the midfield duo released José Manuel on the left wing and his cross found fellow winger Toñito on the far post but his volley was saved with ease by keeper José Fuentes.
On the half hour a corner given short to Rojillos Captain Vladimir was mishit and drilled low which was easily controlled by the Villanovense defence. The Badajoz team broke quick with winger Guile. His inch perfect pass led striker Jaraiz with a one on one with Lanzarote keeper Miguel. The Lanzarote keeper stood tall and then went down at the last instant and saved brilliantly with his feet. Two minutes later and it was déjà vous with Miguel again saving well with his feet from a strike from Sub Miguel Angel.
Seconds before half time, danger man Toñito was at it again. A beautifully swung in corner teased the centre back into having to deal with the ball, the defenders glancing header struck the far post and the visitors were glad to hear the half time whistle moments later.
Talk about a game of two halves. Lanzarote must have been congratulating themselves on a good first half performance but for the first fifteen minutes of the second period the team from the first half were nowhere to be seen.
The side from the edge of the Portuguese border in Spain had the Conejeros chasing shadows in the mid day sun. Five minutes after the restart and an acrobatic overhead kick by ex Rojillo Juanjo leveled the score at one a piece. Villanovense smelt blood and not for the first or last time in the day a great save from the feet of Lanzarote keeper Miguel from striker Moraga kept the Badajoz side at bay.
Lanzarote began to find their first half form and in the 63rd minute Toñito laid on Jotha in the centre and his 25 yard effort went narrowly wide. A couple of minutes later and the same combination of Toñito and Jotha fired Lanzarote back into the lead. A fierce shot from 20 yards by Jotha beat the Villanovense keeper’s outstretched dive as the ball curled into the far right hand corner giving the Rojillos a 2-1 lead to defend.
Ten minutes later and keeper Miguel’s feet were at it again saving superbly from sub Miguel Angel. Rojillos manager Carmelo Hernández boosted up his defence by replacing the impressive José Manuel with centre back Faruk and a few minutes later Barnsley boy Ian replaced the tiring Rosmen.
The Lanzarote defence was deep yet strong and knew a counter attack with the pace of Toñito and Ian Robinson could prove deadly. In the 87th minute the two broke, Toñito fed Robbo but the Englishman goal bound effort was blocked by a last ditch tackle. Nevertheless the Rojillos hung on and reduced the deficit to safety to six points.
Next week Lanzarote are away and play their last fixture before the annual Christmas break against Real Oveido. Stan Collymore’s old side is riding high in seventh position and remains unbeaten at home this season. Meanwhile the Rojillos must improve on their dreadful away form this season which has produced only three goals and a dismal solitary point.
The Rojillos celebrating the opening goal
The difference between the sides can easily be described as Samson versus Goliath. Stan Collymore´s old club spent 13 consecutive seasons in Spain’s Golden league and even played UEFA cup football. The clubs ground has a capacity to hold 30 thousand fans whereas the Lanzarote team have never ventured past the third tier of Spanish football and have an average home attendance of under 500 fans.
As expected the side from the top North of Spain applied the early pressure. From both flanks they attacked the defence of the Rojillos. The opening goal came in the 18th minute. Midfielder Xavi Moré fed striker Manu Bustos in the centre. The well travelled striker who has a liking of scoring against Lanzarote with his previous clubs beat the defender with his first touch and unleashed a fierce strike which whistled past keeper Miguel at his near post.
The Asturias side did not relent and were looking to put the game to bed before the half time whistle. In the 26th minute the home side thought they had doubled the score but to the relief of Lanzarote, the linesman was merrily flagging for offside. Two minutes later and a strike from 12 yards by Xavi Moré struck the left hand post and away to safety with Rojillos keeper Miguel well beaten.
Lanzarote offered little threat with the only strike in anger coming on the half hour by Jotha, however his long distance effort did not test the Oviedo keeper Aulestia. The Lanzarote defence stuck to their guns and even though the home side were dominant in possession the Rojillos held out and went into the break still in the game trailing by the solitary goal.
Lanzarote came out for the second half with a much more positive attitude. Winger Toñito began to run at his opposition and on one occasion following a brilliant jingling run fed striker Rosmen whose effort was brilliantly saved by the Oviedo keeper with Lanzarote a whisker away from leveling the match.
With the Rojillos now enjoying their best spell of the match the inevitable happened. Ten minutes after the restart and following good work from full back Rubén González, striker Manu Bustos fired in his second goal of the match putting a huge dent into the spirits of the Rojillos.
Manager Carmelo Hernández brought on Ian Robinson on the hour mark but the Barnsley boy was forced to defend to prevent another humiliation. A good overall defensive display, but again no points away from home leaves Lanzarote eight points adrift from safety. The next game will be at home against Gran Canarian side Vecindario on the third of January. Many new faces are expected for the fight for survival which undoubtedly lies ahead.
To make matters worse, the flight from Oviedo to Madrid was cancelled due to the airport in Madrid being covered in snow which in turn led to the team missing the connecting flight to Lanzarote. Long delays after a defeat and knowing you will be beginning the New Year propping up the league table at a cold miserable airport was not on any of the players Santa’s wish list this Christmas. Then again you don’t always get what you want.
The players finally returned to Lanzarote amidst the first real downpour of rain the island has received this winter. Never mind, the forecast for Christmas Day is sun.
REAL OVIEDO 2 LANZAROTE 0
21st December 2009
The Rojillos lose their final game of the year in a spirited display against ex Primera Liga side Real Oviedo.
A comfortable 2-0 win for ex Primera Liga side Real Oviedo
Merry Christmas and Best Wishes from Ian, Anna, Jessica, Oscar and Lanzarote´s new mascot Sarotín
The Rojillos looked on form from the start. In the ninth minute Toñito put through the overlapping right back Kamara who fired in a shot but the keeper just got a hand to the ball and pushed it wide for a corner.
Rojillos Manager Carmelo Hernández has already broken his New Year resolution about not conceding first. In the 27th minute and against the run of play Vecindario broke with winger Jony who squared the ball to ex Rojillo Yeray Ortega. One of the home crowds past favourites simply passed the ball into the empty net and yet again Lanzarote were 0-1 down.
Heads did not drop and within two minutes all hell broke loose. Always at the centre of things was winger Toñito. His strike hit the post but the ball was then handled on the line and as the Referee ordered a penalty for the Rojillos. The linesman then waved his flag and to the surprise of everyone awarded an offside decision against Toñito.
Nevertheless the Rojillos were not to be denied. In the 35th Lanzarote were awarded a penalty for a shove on Toñito. Rubén Rodriguez who has undeniably the sweetest left foot on the island blasted the ball home to level the scores at one apiece.
Just after half time Ayoze Pérez replaced Sixto and Captain Vladimir moved into the centre to give the Rojillos more width. A tactic from the Rojillos Mister, (gaffer) that was to prove dividends.
Five minutes into the second half and Rosmen hit the bar when he was one on one with the Vecindario keeper, moments later and Ayoze Pérez found himself in a similar situation but the ball just ran away from him and the opportunity went begging.
As the game past the hour mark there was clearly only one team searching for the win and that was the red and blue of Lanzarote. Jotha came close from a long range effort in the 63rd minute and four minutes later a beautiful curling shot from Toñito was brilliantly saved by the Gran Canarian keeper Javi Ortega.
In the 75th minute and with the Barnsley boy Robbo, only being on the park for five minutes, he pretended to volley a shot but just touched the ball in front of himself which left the defender flat footed and was clearly brought down by his opponent. Rubén Rodriguez converted the resulting penalty and Lanzarote were 2-1 up.
Eight minutes from time and the game was wrapped up. A long throw from Kamara was flicked on by striker Rosmen and coming in just wide of the penalty spot was Robbo who volleyed into the top right corner to make the score 3-1. All of the Rojillos team, bench and management joined in celebrating the hard working and popular Englishman. The Barnsley boy has this ability to come off the bench and create an extra stride for his team mates with his positive play as well as terrifying defenders with his incredible pace. He certainly proved the difference in this match winning a penalty and scoring a goal all within 20 minutes.
With the first round of games now complete Lanzarote are still bottom and seven points from safety. Lanzarote travel to Gran Canaria next week to face league leaders Universidad. In the opening match of the season Lanzarote beat Universidad 2-1 but since then the Gran Canarian side have been in scintillating form and beat Real Oviedo 3-0 Sunday which was their third win on the bounce.
LANZAROTE 3 VECINDARIO 1
4th January 2010
Lanzarote got off to a terrific start to the New Year with an excellent performance against the Gran Canarian side Vecindario. This will put the Rojillos in a positive frame of mind for the battle that lies ahead. Two penalties from Rubén Rodriguez and a first strike for Englishman Ian Robinson gave Lanzarote a vital three points.
Barnsley Boy Ian Robinson coming in on the 70th minute, earning a penalty and scoring the third. That will do Robbo!
The four new signings, Goalkeeper Vilches, defenders Richard and Juachi and of course Jonathon Torres all made a stunning impact on their debuts.
With a back four oozing with confidence with the knowledge that behind them is a goalkeeper with nine years experience of playing his football in Spain’s Bronze league, a confident Rojillos team pulled off the days shock win.
It took the Rojillos less than two minutes to stamp their authority. A ball crossed in was flicked on by the ever improving Rosmen and the prodigal son Jonathon Torres fired in a volley from the edge of the box to put the Rojillos into an early 0-1 lead.
Five minutes later and the man who had spent the first half of this season with Alicante Jonathon Torres was at it again. An outrageous overhead kick flew inches over the Universidad bar. The boy was on fire!
In the 13th minute a precise pass from Torres was received by Ayoze Pérez and his strike beat keeper Lampón but was cleared off the line by a defender.
An injury in the 15th minute for Santi Torres saw an eager Toñito coming on as a sub. Moments later and his impact was almost deadly as he saw his strike thundering off the bar.
The league leaders only threat came from dead ball situations and the Rojillos new goalkeeper Vilches looked in complete control.
A minute before the break and a rampant Lanzarote had doubled their lead. A corner swung in from Rúben Rodriguez was met powerfully by the head of Torres and even though the keeper got a hand on the ball it was not enough as the Rojillos went into the half time break with a surprise but well deserved 0-2 lead.
Tactical changes from the Gran Canarian side were inevitable. With two up front and two just behind their intentions were obvious. Nevertheless, Lanzarote persisted and looked the more dangerous. The pain of conceding a goal just before half time did not relent as the Rojillos outclassed their opponents in all departments.
In the 55th minute Torres found himself on a one on one with the Universidad keeper. His goal bound effort was flicked away by the toes of the advancing keeper.
Just before the hour was up Universidad had their best chance of the match. Striker Cristo Marrero ran at speed through the Lanzarote defence passing several defenders and unleashing a strike that struck the post and away for a goal kick.
With 10 minutes remaining the Rojillos sealed their victory. A great run down the left wing by new boy Juachi who´s inch perfect cross found the head of Torres and the Lanzarote striker nodded home completing a magnificent return to his home club with a classy hat rick.
Lanzarote were certain of their first away win of the season but unfortunately could not achieve their first clean sheet. On the counter attack and with the last kick of the match midfielder Ariday scored a consolation but nothing was going to dampen the spirits of a rejuvenated Rojillo side.
This was a great start to the second half of the season but Lanzarote are still bottom of the league and five points adrift of safety. Next week CD Toledo are the visitors. They too are on form with consecutive wins but their game last week was called off due to snow.
With the weather forecast over the next week looking excellent in Lanzarote with clear skies and temperatures in their mid 20´s a sudden shock of heat will be a welcome relief for the team based in central Spain.
Why not get away from the cold and hop on a plane and fours later you will be basking in wonderful sunshine. What can be better than watching football whilst getting a sun tan?
UNIVERSIDAD 1 LANZAROTE 3
11th January 2010
Can you Adam and Eve it? The league leaders played off the park by bottom club Lanzarote. Striker Jonathon Torres marks his return with a hat rick as the Rojillos make it nine points out of a possible twelve and emphasize their intent to steer clear of relegation.
Jonathon Torres marking his return to his home club with a stunning hat trick
The first opportunity for the Madrid side was in the 17th minute. Winger Joaqui found himself with a free strike on the edge of the box with only the Lanzarote keeper Vilches to beat but his scuffed effort went horribly wrong as the ball bobbled away for a goal kick.
In the 22nd minute some delightful football involving Vladimir and Rúben Rodriguez led to the opening goal. The latter curled a deadly cross in from the left wing. Rosmen arriving with precision timing and with no flag from the official stuck the ball home from close range sending the Rojillos into a 1-0 lead.
Lanzarote were now dominant and looked dangerous on every attack. Five minutes before half time and Lanzarote scored that crucial second goal. The Impressive new signing Juachi looks to be a real find. Pushing up from his left back role he fed Rúben Rodriguez who curled in another trademark beauty that had Toledo’s defence in disarray. The ball struck the bar from the cross come shot. Whether the attempt was intentional is up for debate but the way he shaped his body was evidence enough for me. Toñito pulled the ball back from the byline and found Rosmen who struck home from six yards for his and his teams second of the day.
During the break, Rojillos manager Carmelo Hernández must have been aware that his side has won all matches in which they have scored first however his defence has let in more goals than any other team in Spain’s top four divisions.
The Conejeros did come out for the second half with the mentality not to lose what they have and began to play deeper. Toledo held the possession but again Lanzarote looked the more threatening on the break.
On the hour the Madrid side was back in it. A through ball found striker Rufino. The official gave the striker the benefit of the doubt with offside and he neatly chipped the advancing keeper Vilches to reduce the deficit to 2-1.
A free kick in the 73rd minute was well saved by the new Lanzarote number one as the visitors went in search of a point.
In the 82nd minute a fast counter attack led to Rosmen with a chance for a hat rick. The striker rounded a defender and had a clear strike on goal. Unselfishly he fed sub Sixto for a tap in when a strike was the much better option and a defender running on the sprint cleared in the nick of time.
The last moment of drama occurred five minutes from time. A cross from the left was punched clear by Keeper Vilches. The ball landed at the feet of midfielder Pulga and his powerful strike was destined for the bottom left hand corner only for man of the match Rosmen to clear at full stretch.
The signs look good. Both front men of Torres and Rosmen have been in superb goal scoring form. Englishman Ian Robinson who was out with a calf strain has also looked like a player possessed and when you know your team is always capable of scoring that confidence will bring results.
The Rojillos still remain bottom but only on goal difference and with three consecutive wins under the belt they will have a belly full of confidence when they travel to face fourth placed side Guadalara next week.
LANZAROTE 2 TOLEDO 1
18th January 2010
The weather is the best way to describe Lanzarote´s form of late; Hot! Four wins out of the last five games has pushed Lanzarote into relegation contenders rather than relegation certainties and they are now within four points of safety.
Lanzarote´s triumphant starting eleven
The opening few minutes were played mainly in the midfield as both teams seemed to be looking for weaknesses in each other. In the 9th minute a quick clever throw by Rúben Rodriguez to Captain Vladimir, who had lost his marker, drilled in a cross from the byline through a crowd of players and striker Rosmen was inches away from a tap in. The ball eventually fell to Toñito but the talented winger lost his composure and blasted the ball high and hard towards the midday sun.
Five minutes later and from a similar situation Rúben Rodriguez curled a cross at the far post for Rosmen. The striker dived in and nodded home only for the official to wave his flag for a dubious offside.
Striker Rosmen scoring both the goals
New signing Moncho made his debut and Ian Robinson partnered Rosmen up front in the absence of the injured Jonathon Torres. The Rojillos got off to a steady start and didn’t allow their opponents any time to dwell on the ball.
The best opportunities for the Rojillos came from set pieces in the opening 45 minutes as well as Englishman Robbo who beat his defender but the keeper somehow managed to smother his strike. The Madrid side came close from an effort by striker Marcos Navas in the 37th minute which was well saved by Lanzarote keeper Vilches and three minutes later the same player shot high and over inside the six yard box.
Lanzarote came out for the second half believing that they could win this game and looked the more capable team in possession. Less than 10 minutes into the second half and the game turned upside down for Lanzarote with the temperamental winger Toñito picking up his second yellow card in the space of five minute forcing his team mates to play the remainder of the match with 10 men.
Over 3000 home fans roared their team to attack the 10 man Lanzarote and they obliged with 16 minutes of deadly finishing.
Barnsley boy Ian was sacrificed and replaced with midfielder Maikel Padrón as Guadalara smelt blood and looked for the kill. In the 65th minute the home side went in front when Marcos Navas blasted in from close range following a goal mouth scramble.
In the 73rd minute winger Alain got round the back of the Lanzarote defence and chipped the advancing keeper to make the score 2-0. Four minutes later and midfielder Iván Moreno added a third and the rout was completed in the 81st minute when Sub Manzano stuck away the fourth.
There will certainly be another inquest regarding the red card from local boy Toñito. The 24 year old has been gifted a talent with his feet which could easily be playing in a higher division but his poor attitude is only worthy of the lower leagues of pub football. Sent off for the umpteenth time when the game was at stalemate will not impress his manager Carmelo Hernández.
Lanzarote still remain four points adrift of safety and have a mouth watering home clash next Sunday when they entertain league leaders Alcorcón. The Madrid outfit is riding high on confidence following their mauling of Real Madrid 4-0 a few weeks ago in the Copa Del Rey. They were knocked out of the cup in the following round by Primera Liga side Racing Santander 3-2 over two legs.
Their league form is also immense with five successive wins under their belt and 24 points out of a possible 27 over the last nine matches.
GUADALAJARA 4 LANZAROTE 0
25th January 2010
U.D Lanzarote´s three match winning streak came to an abrupt end in the space of 16 second half minutes against second placed side, Guadalajara.
Toñito, sent off on the hour with the score 0-0
The Rojillos (reds) held the majority of possession and the build up play was excellent with new signing Carlitos being a constant annoyance to the Madrid side’s defence. The Amarillos (yellows) big threat came on the counter attack. In the 29th minute the visitors broke quick which led to them receiving a free kick on the edge of the Lanzarote box. Striker Ernesto sweetly curled the ball wide of the outstretched arm of the Lanzarote keeper Vilches and into the top right hand corner giving the visitors a 0-1 lead.
Only a couple of minutes later and Alcorcón should have been two up. A ball launched through the centre saw keeper Vilches race off his line only for Cascón to beat him to the chase. The midfielder chipped the advanced keeper but centre back Faruk read the script and beat the midfielder to what would have been an easy tap in and cleared the danger.
The Lanzarote keeper made another good save moments before the break from Ernesto and the Rojillos went into the half time break a goal down but definitely still in the game.
The Rojillos looked sharp after the break and their first opportunity came after only two minutes. Rosmen controlled the ball on the edge of the area and immediately struck a fierce drive, the Madrid keeper Juanma could only parry the ball but there was no one following up for the tap in.
Ten minutes into the second half and Rojillos manager Carmelo Hernández introduced crowd favourite Jonathon Torres. Seconds after coming on and the striker almost had an instant impact. A goal bound overhead kick from six yards was brilliantly saved from Juanma. The return fell to the head of Rosmen who could only nod the ball onto the bar and over.
Lanzarote were now rampant as Alcorcón seemed happy to sit behind the ball and hit Lanzarote on the counter. Torres again came close and then in the 72nd minute the Rojillos got their just reward. A free kick from the identical position that Alcorcón scored from was set up by Rojillos midfielder Jotha. The ex Real Madrid star blasted the ball low and hard which found its way through the wall and beat the keeper sending the Conejeros level at 1-1.
In the 79th minute Carlitos had a wonderful chance to mark his debut with a goal. A clever cross from Rosmen found the striker in the six yard box but he looked surprised to have received the ball and fluffed his header wide.
Amidst the red attack the league leaders looked deadly on the break. In the 87th minute a header from sub Iñigo López was brilliantly saved from Vilches but the rebound fell kindly to his team mate Mario Sanchez, who, from point blank range blasted the ball for a certain goal only to strike the Lanzarote keeper straight in the face and miraculously away to safety.
Both teams went in search of a winner and in the 92nd minute the Alcorcón midfield robbed possession from Lanzarote and sub Bravo had a clear run on the Lanzarote goal. Lanzarote sub Ian Robinson who had only been on the pitch three minutes had dropped off anticipating the danger. What a good decision that was! The Barnsley boy sprinted diagonally across the pitch and his timely challenge pushed the ball wide restricting the angle of the shot. The strike was pushed wide by the Lanzarote keeper ensuring a point in an outstanding match.
The point was not enough for Lanzarote to move off the bottom as fellow relegation candidates also picked up points. The Rojillos remain four points away from safety and next week will travel to the Spanish capital for a tough match against the B team of Atlético Madrid who occupy fourth position which is the final play off spot.
LANZAROTE 1 ALCORCÓN 1
1st February 2010
U.D. Lanzarote fought back from a goal down against the league leaders and giant killers of Real Madrid in the Cup to earn a valuable point in a highly charged and entertaining encounter on a hot Sunday morning in Arrecife.
League leaders and cup giant killers, Alcorcón
The Conejeros (locals) began the match looking the more offensive of the two teams. In the 6th minute neat footwork from Rubén Rodriguez set up striker Rosmen. The tall centre forward struck the ball well from eight yards but his shot rose a foot too high over the bar.
Strikes from Rubén Rodriguez and a long distance effort from Jotha came close but a shot from midfielder Cascón for the visitors came closest, hitting the woodwork.
Out of reach for keeper Vilches as Alcorcón go into a 0-1 lead
Lanzarote are now top of the form table over their last eight games played, underlining their intention of avoiding relegation.
Lanzarote got off to a flyer. The moment the Ref blew his whistle Lanzarote looked determined to go in front. After only five minutes Rúben Rodriguez whipped in one of his special left footed corner kicks and right back Moncho flicked on and new boy Carlitos stuck the ball home giving the Rojillos a shock 0-1 lead.
The game plan for the home side went up in smoke as Lanzarote did not relent and were first to every tackle giving the fourth placed side no time on the ball.
In the 19th minute another superb cross from Rúben Rodriguez was met by Ayoze Pérez and from the centre of the area he drilled Lanzarote into a 0-2 lead.
The Rojillos battled for every ball and did not let their opposition any time to settle. The home side could only offer a long distance shot through midfielder Indiano which flew over and a strike from centre forward Perea which was comfortably dealt with by the Lanzarote keeper Vilches. The Rojillos looked good value going in for their half time cuppa with a two goal advantage.
Only 10 minutes into the second half and the home side reduced the deficit. A cross floated in from defender Regalón fell to Javi Cantera and the midfielder made no mistake blasting home giving his side plenty of time to go in search of an equalizer.
Instead of heads dropping, this setback only inspired the eleven men of Carmelo Hernández who went in search of a third goal. The game was being played at a frantic pace and only a goal line clearance prevented Jonathon Torres from restoring the two goal cushion.
In the 79th minute centre back Faruk picked up his second yellow card and Lanzarote were forced to play the final ten minutes or so with only 10 men. Lanzarote immediately brought on their eighth and last signing of the January transfer window, defender André Luiz.
The expected bombardment from Atlético arrived as they launched ball after ball into Lanzarote´s danger zone. The Rojillos defence stood firm and in the closing minutes a brilliant block by Rojillos keeper Vilches ensured that Lanzarote travelled home from Madrid with their first victory this season in the Spanish mainland.
Lanzarote have now moved off bottom spot which they have occupied since the 11th October albeit by only one place. Next week Real Racing Santander B will be the visitors and their recent form is terrible with no wins in nine games and are only three points ahead of the Rojillos sitting in the relegation play off position with a third division club. This is a true six pointer.
ATLÉTICO MADRID B 1 LANZAROTE 2
8th February 2010
Another mighty result for U.D. Lanzarote. Last season the Rojillos were thrashed 6-0 in Madrid and were also humiliated this season suffering a 0-4 home defeat to the hands of the Rojiblancos (red and whites).
A fantastic away win for the Rojillos
The passing and movement from the home side was at times electric and manager Carmelo Hernández was urging his side to put the game to bed before half time. Rubén Rodriguez was having another outstanding game and nutmegged his opponent with a pass to Torres who in turn released Ayoze but his powerful strike went wide hitting the side netting.
Carlitos was proving to be a real handful for the Santander defence and never more so than in the 35th minute when he latched onto a through ball and was brought down inside the area, the Ref immediately ordered a spot kick. The sweet left foot of Rubén Rodriguez sent the keeper the wrong way as he buried the ball into the bottom right hand corner and Lanzarote were flying with a 3-0 lead.
The visitors had a great chance to reduce the deficit five minutes before the break. Uri beat his defender and cut the ball back from the right wing to his centre forward Docal. His strike was powerful and accurate but the Lanzarote keeper Vilches saved brilliantly with his feet making sure his side went into the break with their three goal advantage in tact.
As expected the Rojillos were a little more subdued after the interval though just before the hour mark Lanzarote were presented with four very good chances within the space of ten minutes. Rubén hit the first high over but five minutes later he caught the ball cleanly on the volley and only a fantastic save from Pablo denied his 20 yard strike from going into the top left hand corner.
A minute later and this time Torres was denied from eight yards as the Racing keeper saved well tipping the ball over the bar. Two minutes later and Rubén put through Torres. An accurate chip from 30 yards was all that was needed as the keeper had been caught in no mans land but unfortunately Torres chipped over but well wide.
With 20 minutes remaining Lanzarote decided enough was enough and took off their inspirational captain Vladi who had been carrying a knock then Rubén and Torres were also rewarded with an early shower as the game fizzled out with Lanzarote comfortable winners.
Lanzarote could live to regret not scoring a fourth. Racing beat the Rojillos by the same score line early on this season and should it go down to points and goal difference between the two sides Lanzarote would be relegated. If Lanzarote would have scored four they would have been safe as these are the rules that apply in Spanish football.
The Rojillos form of late has been devastating and over the last seven games they lie second in the form guide only bettered by the runaway leaders and Copa del Rey giant killing experts Alcorcón by a single point. Nevertheless the Rojillos still remain second from bottom but are now just two points from safety.
Next week Lanzarote will travel to the Spanish capital to face sixth placed side Conquense. The Madrid side are also in good form with only one defeat in their last seven outings and are sitting only two points off the play offs.
LANZAROTE 3 RACING SANTANDER B 0
15th February 2010
Thirty seven minutes was all it took to blow away the Primera Liga sides B team and to carry on this astonishing turn around of form for U.D. Lanzarote.
U.D. Lanzarote players wearing T-shirts in support of their injured team mates Rosmen and Englishman Robbo
The opening goal came after only five minutes. Carlitos received the ball near the penalty spot and on the turn cleverly passed the ball into the right hand corner of the net beating the outstretched Racing keeper Pablo and giving his new club a 1-0 lead.
The Rojillos were not content and went in search of a second. In the 14th minute Rubén Rodriguez split his opponents defence with an inch perfect pass and Ayoze Pérez blasted goal bound from 12 yards, the goalkeeper couldn’t hold his stinging shot and Jonathon Torres as ever was there doing what a striker should do and toe poked home giving his side a comfortable 2-0 cushion.
The visitors almost caught Lanzarote off guard in the 24th minute when a quick break saw right winger Uri with a possible one on one with the Rojillos keeper but his first touch let him down and his shot drifted aimlessly across the goal.
The Rojillo defence with their first clean sheet of the season
The Rojillos are not good travelers. Lanzarote´s daytime temperatures rarely fall below 20 degrees, so to be greeted on a cold Sunday morning with rain and a howling gale with pockets of snow dotted around the pitch did not particularly suit the Conejeros.
Enough excuses. Since the January transfer wheeling and dealing Lanzarote now have a squad capable of living in Spain’s third tier of football. They were simply outplayed by a side pushing for promotion, and indeed with this win Conquense have moved within one place and one point from the play offs.
From the first minute the home side took control of the match and the Lanzarote goalkeeper Vilches knew he was in for a busy morning. In the seventh minute Lanzarote´s defence frailties rose to the surface once more. A corner swung in from the left bobbled around the six yard box and the Rojillos had three opportunities to clear the ball but Conquense didn’t hang around for the fourth, as midfielder Cubillo blasted home from close range to put his side at ease with an early 1-0 lead.
In the 33rd minute Vilches saved brilliantly with his feet preventing striker Gato doubling his sides lead with a strike from eight yards. Vilches came to the rescue again just before half time with another great save from centre forward Oscar Silva when the Conquense striker found himself with just the keeper to beat.
Lanzarote came out for the second half with a completely different attitude and Conquense were forced to retreat. Defender Juachi put through new boy Raul Torres but his good strike was well saved by the local keeper Martinez.
On the hour mark striker Carlitos header inches over and a few minutes later defender Moncho found himself with a free header from a corner but his powerful effort fell straight into the keepers arms.
The recalled winger Toñito had a good shout for a penalty waved away midway through the second half and in the 83rd minute the home side eased their worries with the all important second goal. Good combination play from the forwards gave Martins a clear strike and with just the Lanzarote keeper to beat the centre forward comfortably gave his side a 2-0 lead.
That goal completely deflated the spirits of the Rojillos and with seven minutes remaining there was no way back against a side who on average concede a goal a game.
On the positive side fellow relegation strugglers did not fair any better. Lanzarote still remain second from bottom but are still only a point from safety. The next few weeks will prove decisive as the Rojillos will be up against a host of teams in and around relegation trouble. First up is a home game against Cacereño who lie in 14th position three points above Lanzarote with 30 points. If any other incentive is needed then the 5-0 thrashing Lanzarote suffered to the hands of Cacereño in the first round of games should be sufficient.
The good news is that Vladi, Jonathon Torres and Rubén Rodriguez all look set to return.
CONQUENSE 2 LANZAROTE 0
22nd February 2010
A goal in each half put an end to Lanzarote´s great run of form. Without Captain Vladimir, striker Jonathon Torres and midfield maestro Rubén Rodriguez as well as longer term injuries of strikers Rosmen and Ian Robinson the journey 200 kilometres from Madrid was always going to be a difficult task.
Ayoze Pérez trying to get his side back in the game
Those two years Jotha spent with Real Madrid’s first team training day in day out with the likes of Beckham, Raul, Figo and the master Zidane was evident to see as that goal was worthy of any match.
Lanzarote had the grit between their teeth and only two minutes later winger Toñito was brought down in the box and the man in black awarded the Rojillos a spot kick. The ever reliable Rubén Rodriguez blasted the ball into the right hand corner sending the keeper the wrong way and incredibly giving his side a 2-1 lead.
In the 58th minute the home side was unlucky not to have scored a third. A corner swung in from the left by Rubén Rodriguez was met by centre back Richard and his glancing header beat the Cacereño keeper but the defender remained on the post and cleared the ball off the line.
With a player less the home side opted for a more defensive approach for the remainder of the match. In the 66th minute the visitors were awarded an indirect free kick only eight yards out. Unsurprisingly the ball was touched then blasted by striker Rai but the ever so alert Lanzarote keeper smothered the ball and kept the enemy out.
Whilst the away side now dominated possession it was still Lanzarote that looked the more likely to add to their 2-1 lead. In the 78th minute sub Jonathon Torres had a good effort saved and a minute later Carlitos blasted from close range but his effort struck the keeper and deflected away for a corner.
The following 11 minutes plus five minutes of stoppage time felt like an eternity to the Lanzarote faithful as the away side wouldn’t relent. The Lanzarote defence stuck to its guns and held on for a brilliant and very important victory against a relegation rival.
Over the next five weeks Lanzarote will face four relegation rivals. First up is next week away to the B side of Sporting Gijón who are third from bottom and only a point away from Lanzarote.
LANZAROTE 2 CACEREÑO 1
1st March 2010
Astonishing! U.D. Lanzarote have been in the relegation positions since September and hit rock bottom on the 11th of October when the Rojillos were thrashed 5-0 by this same side.
Jotha with his 30 yard wonder goal
With this victory the Conejeros (locals) not only move out of the four automatic relegation positions but have avoided the 5th from bottom spot which entails a horrible two legged affair with a hungry third Division side in a play off to remain in Spain’s bronze league.
The game kicked off at an amazing pace and within the first minute Lanzarote believed they had taken the lead. Striker Carlitos flicked on the ball in the heart of the oppositions 18 yard box and Toñito latched onto the pass and fired it home only for the linesman to wave his flag for offside.
The Rojillos dominated possession in the opening stages but rarely threatened. The side from the Extremadura region of Spain seemed happy to sit back and soak the pressure and try and catch the Conejeros on the break.
The first strike in anger was hit sweetly from 25 yards by Jotha. The Cacereño keeper was alert and tipped the ball over for a corner.
A well earned round of applause from the fans
In the 38th minute Jotha floated in an inch perfect free kick into the danger zone and Carlitos´s guided header was finger tipped onto the inside of the post and away to safety by the visitors keeper, Polo.
Only a minute had lapsed and the Lanzarote Captain Vladimir unluckily picked up his second yellow card and the Rojillos were forced to play more than half the match with only 10 men.
Importantly Lanzarote saw out the remaining six minutes of the half and went into the break with the game scoreless.
Ten seconds into the second half and the Lanzarote defence were caught napping. Midfielder Rocha found himself through with only Vilches, the Lanzarote keeper to beat. The captain of his side calmly stuck the ball away low into the bottom left hand corner giving his side a 0-1 lead.
These days, the Rojillos rarely crumble and the ten men with temperatures topping the mid 20´s battled on and looked the more likely to score the next goal.
In less than five minutes the Conejeros were level in spectacular fashion at one apiece. Following a corner, the ball fell to Lanzarote´s vice captain Jotha and the ex Real Madrid star hit a dipping volley into the top right hand corner leaving the keeper motionless and sending the home fans into a wild frenzy.
On the injury front Rubén Rodriguez, Jonathon Torres are fit. Barnsley boy Ian Robinson went for a scan in Tenerife last week on his injured knee and got the all clear though he will miss the next match. Vladimir will miss the next two games by picking up his 5th yellow card and being sent off. The Lanzarote captain shouldn’t be too disappointed as he would need a week off due to a knee problem, now he has been forced into two weeks rest which I am sure will only serve to better his injury. Striker Rosmen will still be out for at least another six weeks with his broken foot.
At the other end of the table Alcorcón remain top five points ahead of Real Oviedo. Gran Canarian side Universidad is in third with Guadalajara occupying the last play off spot.
The joyous Lanzarote back room staff happy at last after months of pain
The home side opened the scoring in the 7th minute. A corner viciously swung in from the Lanzarote´s keepers left found Borja Navarro. The striker’s well timed glancing header left keeper Vilches motionless as the ball flew into the roof of the net.
With the score 1-0 to the home side Lanzarote looked nervous about conceding a second goal. The Rojillos bolted its doors in defence but lacked any real threat up front offering only a couple of long distance efforts.
Meanwhile the Asturias side looked hungry and dangerous. In central midfield the Rojillos were without their suspended inspirational Captain Vladimir. Gijón dominated this area with youngsters Sergio and Juan Muñiz controlling proceedings.
Just before half time these two players combined with Sergio laying the ball across the goal but team mate Juan Muñiz was just inches away from connecting with the goal at his mercy. Lanzarote were glad to hear the half time whistle with only the solitary goal separating the sides.
Lanzarote came out from the break looking a much fresher side. They were first to the ball, winning the tackles, and put pressure on the home defence. Nine minutes into the second half and all this good work was in tatters.
A free kick by Juan Muñiz taken from long distance was launched into Lanzarote´s danger zone and got caught in the strong wind which deceived the Lanzarote keeper into a rare mistake and gave the home side a fortunate 2-0 lead.
On several occasions this season Lanzarote have only got themselves going when they are two goals down. Fifteen minutes after conceding the second goal the Rojillos pulled one back. A foul on Carlitos in the six yard box and the referee ordered a spot kick. The ever reliable Rubén Rodriguez stepped up and stroked the ball with force into the right hand corner but the keeper tipped the ball onto the post but the rebound fell kindly back to Rubén and he stuck the ball home with ease reducing the deficit to 2-1.
With 20 minutes left to play Lanzarote were now seriously looking to salvage a point and more importantly not allowing the side below them in the league to claim all three points.
As much as Lanzarote huffed and puffed, Gijon’s defence held firm not allowing the Rojillos a clear chance and the Rojillos flew back to Lanzarote via Madrid empty handed and back into the last automatic relegation positions, fourth from bottom.
Sporting Gijón B leapfrog Lanzarote with this win and climb out of the drop zone and up to 15th.
SPORTING GIJÓN B 2 LANZAROTE 1
7th March 2010
The Rojillos come off second best and slip back into the drop zone after defeat in the top north of Spain against a direct relegation rival.
The Rojillos drop back into the bottom four following their loss in the Asturias
In the 54th minute the away side was level. Inevitably a break down the right wing by Oscar Martin caused havoc which the local fans have been familiar with over the last three years. His powerful cross was only palmed away by the Lanzarote keeper Vilches and the rebound fell to Airam, his strike was blocked inside the six yard box but first to react was midfielder Jonay who clipped the ball over Vilches and into the roof of the net.
With the score at 1-1 the Tenerife side looked dangerous in every attack and the lighting pace from either flank was causing mayhem in a tiring Lanzarote defence. In the 67th minute Jonay broke down the left and raced in between two Rojillo defenders but keeper Vilches read the danger and beat the midfielder to the ball clearing the danger by hoofing the ball up field.
Five minutes later and a clever through ball from Tenerife midfielder Juan Ramón was met by an equally clever run from danger man Airam. The striker coolly went round the Lanzarote keeper and fired the away side 1-2 in front from a narrow angle notching up his 25th for the season, nine goals clear from the second placed top marksman in the league.
Three minutes later and a shot from Airam was well saved by the feet of the Lanzarote keeper. The Rojillos had no choice but to put bodies forward which would leave the Conejeros open to the counter attack.
In the 80th minute a cross from winger Toñito was controlled well by Rubén, he beat the right back leaving himself with a free strike at goal but his tame effort fell into the arms of the Tenerife keeper.
In the 84th minute Lanzarote centre back Faruk was unlucky to be shown his second yellow card for a high foot and if Lanzarote were going to save themselves it was going to be with 10 men.
In the final minute the ball was launched into the Tenerife box, Carlitos controlled the ball and was unfairly pushed in the back and fell to the ground albeit in spectacular fashion. The Ref was instantly convinced and awarded Lanzarote a life saving penalty kick.
Rubén stepped up and planted the ball into the bottom left hand corner notching up his 10th strike this season and earning his side a valuable point and more importantly keeping the distance between the two sides to only two points rather than five.
LANZAROTE 2 TENERIFE B 2
15th March 2010
The Rojillos fight back from 1-2 down with 10 men to draw level in the final minute of play with a penalty converted by Lanzarote´s top scorer Rubén Rodriguez.
Striker Carlitos pushed and kicked but earns his side a last minute penalty
The opening stages of the game did not flow well with the Referee stopping and starting the game with unnecessary free kicks being awarded to both sides. The Conejeros (locals) then began to start enjoying the majority of the ball and in the 9th minute the home side took the lead. A free kick swung into the six yard box from Rubén was chased by Carlitos, without touching the ball his run deceived both defence and goalkeeper and the ball ended up in the bottom left hand corner giving Lanzarote a fortunate 1-0 lead.
The Rojillos were now looking to increase their lead. In the 25th minute an inch perfect through ball from Jotha found Carlitos but the striker got the ball stuck under his feet and he was crowded out of the way by a host of Tenerife defenders. A minute later and a 20 yard effort from left back Juachi looked destined for the top left hand corner but the Tenerife keeper acrobatically dived and brilliantly saved with his right hand and only conceded a corner kick.
The Tenerife manager was not happy with what he was seeing and on the half hour he ordered two of his subs Airam the leagues top scorer, and ex- Rojillo Oscar Martin to warm up. This seemed to do the trick as the Primera Liga´s B side gradually edged back into the game and went into the half time break trailing by a single goal.
One minute into the second half and Tenerife made the move of the match by introducing the ex Lanzarote favourite Oscar Martin and the leagues top scorer with 24 goals Airam. Oscar Martin immediately was causing problems flying down the right wing leaving the Lanzarote defence in pieces.
Juachi on the ball followed closely by ex Rojillo Oscar Martín
Lanzarote drop a place and are now third from bottom. Next week Lanzarote will travel to Badajoz and face Cerro Reyes who look comfortable in 13th place but are still only three points ahead of Lanzarote. This emphasizes how close things are in the relegation zone with only three points separating six teams.
He may pack a skinny frame but Rubén Rodriguez has been gifted with a deadly left foot
The home side began the game knowing that a victory here would go a long way ensuring another season in Spain’s third league of football. The Badajoz side were quick off the blocks and were intent on calming their nerves by scoring an early goal.
The Rojillos realized that this was going to be the case and were defensively very well organized in the opening few minutes and gradually began to gain control of the ball in the centre of midfield.
Just when Lanzarote had thought they had contained the opening barrage of attack from the home team they were victim to a moment of brilliance in the ninth minute of play. A great run from winger Golo down the right flank caused mayhem within the Lanazarote defence. The winger delivered a superb pinpoint cross to the far post and striker Engo Noir finished off the move with a textbook header which beat the Rojillos keeper Vilches giving the home side a 1-0 advantage.
Lanzarote kept their discipline and edged their way back into the match. Six minutes from half time and with the help of the Cerro Reyes keeper Lanzarote were level. A corner from Raúl Torres was caught by the keeper but for some inexplicable reason the ball slipped from his hands and the Lanzarote striker Jonathon Torres couldn’t believe his luck toe poking the ball home to make the score 1-1.
For the remainder of the first half Lanzarote got to grips with the game and looked the more dangerous side but still couldn’t capitalize. In the 41st minute a 20 yard effort from the goal scorer Torres was scrambled away by the nervous keeper as the home side held on till the break.
After the interval the home side gradually began to pour pressure restricting Lanzarote to counter attacks. In the 66th minute Lanzarote defender Moncho cleared off the line following a shot by midfielder Cayado. Cerro Reyes then replaced their left and right midfielders with two wingers, one on either flank.
The Rojillos began to sit back and were looking more than content with a point. In the 80th minute sub Cristo was clean through with just Vilches to beat but his effort cleared the upright and Lanzarote drew a sigh of relief.
The relief was only temporary. With four minutes remaining a cross from Cristo found fellow sub Juanito, he passed the ball backwards to the unmarked Engo Noir and the striker made no mistake thundering the ball into the net from eight yards and putting his side 2-1 up with his second goal of the match.
The home side held on for the remaining four minutes of mandatory time and the three minutes of injury time for a deserved victory.
On a good note, none of the other sides in the relegation battle won and just six points separates the bottom seven teams with eight matches to play. Four teams will be automatically relegated and the fifth from bottom side will be forced to face a play off match with a third division club in order remain in this league.
This Sunday Lanzarote host Puertollano who will be bubbling with confidence following their 3-1 win against second placed side Real Oviedo.
The side from the Castilla- La Mancha region of Spain will be eager to improve on their good form which has brought them to within four points of the promotion places.
Lanzarote on the other hand must maintain their fantastic recent home form in which over their last seven home games the Rojillos have won five and drawn two.
CERRO REYES AT 2 LANZAROTE 1
22nd March 2010
A defeat in Badajoz against relegation rivals leaves the Rojillos still third from bottom and two points from safety with eight games remaining. In contrast Cerro Reyes began the day two points clear of relegation and has now extended that margin to a comfortable five points after a run of seven matches with just a single defeat.
Enjoying the cuddles, striker Engo Noir with both goals
Neither side threatened in the opening stages with the only danger coming from dead ball situations. The side from Castilla-La-Mancha region of Spain were playing the better football and were passing the ball around with comfort. Lanzarote on the other hand seemed desperate for a goal and impatiently kept on playing the long ball looking to release striker Jonathon Torres.
The winning goal came in the 27th minute. A clearance by the Brazilian defender Andrés Gasparini was charged down by striker Acorán, the ball fell between the striker and the Lanzarote goalkeeper Vilches, the Lanzarote keeper hesitated then tackled the striker and as the ball broke loose both players raced and challenged again but Vilches just managed to get a toe on the ball but the Puertollano striker went down. Somewhat dubiously the Ref blew for a foul and a penalty kick. Acorán picked himself up and buried the ball low into the left hand corner giving the visitors a 0-1 lead.
In the 43rd minute the Lanzarote Captain Vladimir had a powerful effort blocked by keeper Calleja from eight yards and seconds before the half time whistle a long ball through the centre found Jonathon Torres, the Rojillos front man controlled the ball on his thigh whilst turning and unleashed a vicious 30 yard dipping volley which beat the keeper but unfortunately dipped too late and the ball ended up on the roof of the net.
The Conejeros (locals) began the second half a little more patiently but just could not find the killer pass through a very well organized Puertollano defence. In the 57th minute a free kick from 20 yards by Jotha flew over the wall and just when you thought the keeper was flat footed he managed to adjust himself and dived low to his left and palmed the ball away for a corner.
As the Puertollano side began defending deeper and deeper Lanzarote looked the more likely to score. The Rojillos piled on the pressure and were looking dangerous down both flanks with Rubén Rodriguez operating on the right and Juachi on the left.
In the 65th minute and following some neat passing in midfield involving Vladi and Jotha released Juachi on an over lap, the defender hit the byline and pulled the ball back for Torres but the striker, under pressure, shot narrowly wide.
Two minutes later and a great run from Rubén down the right wing fired in an even greater powerful chest height cross crying out for an Andy Gray style header but his excellent work was met by no one and another chance went begging.
With minutes remaining the Rojillos threw everything forward including their keeper Vilches and bombarded the Puertollano goal mouth. In the 90th minute Vladimir controlled the ball inside the area and beat the defender but his shot, come cross, from the right went low and beat both the flying in Torres and the left hand post.
In stoppage time and striker Carlitos was brought down inside the box and whilst everyone in the ground expected the official to blow for a penalty he simply waved play on and stunned all the Rojillos supporters.
As the Ref blew for full time a fracas broke out between both sides and their benches which led to the National police intervening. As in most cases it turned out to be hand bags at ten paces.
Fortunately for Lanzarote only one of the seven sides in the relegation trouble picked up points. That side was Lanzarote´s next opponents Alcalá, who earned themselves a priceless away point against second placed Real Oviedo in a 3-3 draw. The Rojillos will travel to Madrid next week knowing that defeat is not an option. Lanzarote remain third from bottom but still only two points from safety with 21 points still to play for.
On a lighter note may I say thank you to Rob Mcavoy and Brian Bannister who are visitors and supporters of Lanzarote and of whom I had the pleasure to watch the match with. Rob has been following Lanzarote´s hectic season on his website www.sporttrades.co.uk <http://www.sporttrades.co.uk> whilst Brian, sporting his lucrative Gretna Green football shirt turned up with my favourite chocolate, Walnut Whips.(a rarity on this island) I can assure you Brian that they were demolished that same evening by my wife and kids. Bring a box next time.
LANZAROTE 0 PUERTOLLANO 1
29th March 2010
U.D. Lanzarote´s recent good form has turned sour following this home loss and only being able to gather one point in their last four games.
Lanzarote keeper Vilches, unlucky to concede a penalty
The Rojillos began the match badly, conceding in the opening minutes and ended the match even worse.
Less than three minutes had ticked by when Lanzarote conceded and began the afternoon with an even more difficult uphill battle. Ayoze Pérez lost the ball in the centre and being the last defender let in striker Roberto Izquierdo. The Alcalá front man did not turn down this generous gift from the Lanzarote defender and chipped the Lanzarote keeper Vilches giving his side confidence and a 1-0 lead.
The home side was looking to kill off the game early with a second goal but credit must be given to the Lanzarote defence who weathered the initial 20 minutes of bombardment and gradually eased into the match.
Juachi who was playing wide on the left wing and striker Jonathon Torres began to give the home sides defence real problems through constant hard work and battling.
The Rojillos drew level four minutes before the break. Inevitably danger man Juachi flew down the left wing and cut inside beating his defender and was eventually brought down by the Alcalá keeper and the Ref immediately pointed to the spot. The ever reliable Rubén Rodriguez converted the penalty and sent his side into half time with the game level at one apiece.
The Madrid side began the second half as they had begun the first half pinning the Lanzarote back four deep into their own territory. This time the Rojillos managed to hold out for eight minutes. Defender Juani crossed the ball on the edge of the area and Sub Moya headed home from close range giving the home side a 2-1 advantage.
Once again Lanzarote began playing better football when they were staring at defeat and not having much else to lose. Prior to the match Alcalá were sitting fifth from bottom occupying the relegation play off spot two points ahead of Lanzarote who were third from bottom. The importance of this match was obvious as both sets of players showed the commitment expected in a fierce relegation battle with no players holding back on challenges.
The tide had turned and the Rojillos were now dominant in possession with wave after wave of attack. The home side defended deeply and only threatened on the counter attack in search of a two goal cushion.
Finally, in the 73rd minute a great strike from the edge of the area by Juachi beat the outstretched Alcalá keeper and sailed into the far corner of the net and Lanzarote were level for the second time in the match with the score poised at 2-2 with a quarter of an hour remaining.
The closing stages of the match were frantic. In the 81st minute the home side had a glorious chance to take the lead for the third time when they were awarded a penalty. Roberto Izquierdo struck the spot kick well but the ball hit the foot of the post and away to safety.
The reprieve for the Rojillos did not last long. Four minutes into added on time and Lanzarote were dealt a crushing blow. Roberto Izquierdo redeemed himself from his penalty miss by controlling the ball inside the area and powered in a shot which beat Vilches and sent the home fans wild with joy as the ball settled into the back of the net with a 3-2 victory imminent.
The Ref blew straight away from the restart and all the Lanzarote heads dropped looking at the natural green grass of Madrid.
Lanzarote are in big trouble. Only a win will do next week if the Rojillos are realistically going to remain in Spain’s third league for a tenth consecutive season.
Next week the visitors will be Leganés. The Madrid side are in 7th place and six points off the promotion play offs. They will desperately be seeking three points as they are in a battle with six other sides for the final Copa Del Rey (F.A. Cup) spot up for grabs.
However Lanzarote do have a good record against the side that has spent 11 seasons in Spain’s Segunda A (Championship). Over the last five seasons Lanzarote have won this fixture three times and Leganés once with last year being a scoreless draw.
ALCALÁ 3 LANZAROTE 2
5th April 2010
A 94th minute winner for fellow relegation strugglers Alcalá condemns Lanzarote to their third consecutive defeat leaving the Rojillos second from bottom and four points from safety.
A crushing blow for the Rojillos. Going down 3-2 wih the winner four minutes into stoppage time against relegation rivals.
U.D. Lanzarote began the match looking positive and up and ready for a battle. The game plan for Rojillos manager Carmelo Hernández went up in smoke in just under six minutes.
On their first attack the Madrid side punished the Rojillos without mercy. Great wing play from man of the match Chupe who set up team mate Valleros. The midfielders strike was blocked and a host of players challenged for the rebound but quickest to react was Anibal and sent his side 0-1 in front from close range.
The Rojillos were stunned but continued to play open attacking football though failed in the final third. Equally Leganés went in search of a second goal and had a penalty appeal turned down in the closing minutes of the half with the Ref opting for a free kick on the edge of the box.
Lanzarote came out for the second half with the same enthusiasm as they had shown in the opening minutes of the first. Almost instantly this positive frame of mind paid dividends.
A superb free kick by defender Juachi sailed into the top right hand corner from 25 yards leveling the score at one apiece. The home side was egged on by a vociferous crowd and felt as though a winner was inevitable.
LANZAROTE 1 LEGANÉS 2
12th April 2010
A strike in either half by ex Rojillo favourite Anibal Zurdo sends the Conejeros (locals) to the foot of the table, five points from safety with only five matches remaining.
Ex-Rojillo Anibal Zurdo does the damage with a goal in each half
In the 51st minute Raúl Torres and five minutes later Jonathon Torres had good efforts saved by the Leganés keeper.
Both sides were desperate for three points for two entirely different reasons, Leganés for promotion and cup qualification and Lanzarote for survival in Spain’s bronze league.
As the game entered the final third both sides bypassed the midfield as the long ball became the preferred option. This may sound ugly football but the intensity of the match and the openness of the game was enjoyed by all the fans.
Jonathon Torres was again denied twice in the space of three minutes by the Madrid keeper Raúl Moreno as the Rojillos dug deep, desperate for a goal.
In the 81st minute disaster struck. The Lanzarote back four was comfortably in possession of the ball and with no apparent danger a mix up in defence gifted Anibal the ball with just the Rojillos keeper Vilches to beat. The Lanzarote faithful knew the quality that this striker possesses after his two seasons sporting a Rojillos shirt. The Madrid born player made no mistake with his left foot and with his 14th strike of the season put his side back in the lead at 1-2.
Lanzarote´s most famous fan never shy on expressing his opinion
Worrying times for Rojillos manager Carmelo Hernández
This result leaves Lanzarote with one foot in Spain’s third division. The Rojillos are six points from safety with only 12 points left to play for.
The game began at a fiery pace with Lanzarote producing the first chance of the match. A cross from Raúl Torres found namesake Jonathon Torres and the Rojillos striker powered in a good header but the Real Madrid keeper Adán saved well.
In the 7th minute an exquisite pass through the centre from midfielder Cordero split the Rojillos defence and found striker Juan Carlos. As the Lanzarote defence sprinted back the Real Madrid forward neatly rounded keeper Miguel and sent his side 1-0 up.
Credit to the Rojillos as heads did not drop; on the contrary the Rojillos forced the Madrid side to retreat. In the 12th minute Raúl Torres side stepped his defender on the left wing and from a good 30 yards unleashed a rocket of a shot which was still rising as it flew past the Real keeper to level the score at 1-1. Many of the Lanzarote fans were at the clubhouse in Arrecife watching the match live on Real Madrid TV and were stunned as well as relieved watching the replays of such a terrific strike.
The game remained fairly equal up until half time with the best chance falling to Jonathon Torres. The striker beat the offside trap with a run down the right wing, he cut the ball back but the defender managed to block the pass but in turn laid it back to Torres who shot accurate and powerfully but the Madrid keeper stood his ground and saved well.
The second half the Rojillos came out all fired up and bombarded the Madrid goalmouth with successive corners. The home side were kept on the back foot and offered very little when in possession.
The 65th minute proved to be the deciding moment. A free kick on the right wing for Lanzarote swung in by the trusted left boot of Rubén Rodriguez found defender Moncho unmarked at the back post. The centre back some how completely messed up his header and Real Madrid’s B team broke with pace.
Seconds later and Madrid were deep down the Rojillos left wing. Marcos Alonso chipped the ball back to the penalty spot perfectly to striker Sarbia and with the Lanzarote defence still making their way back the Real Madrid striker calmly volleyed home into the bottom right hand corner giving his side a 2-1 advantage.
This time the Rojillos heads dropped knowing that they must win the match to have any realistic chance of avoiding the drop.
The Lanzarote players looked tired both physically and mentally whereas Real Madrid’s youngsters looked strong and eager to impress Spain’s national coach Vicente Del Bosque watching in the stands.
Manager Carmelo Hernández brought on fresh legs with front men Carlitos and Barnsley boy Ian Robinson but the damage had already been done. In the 80th minute sub Vasquez broke down the right wing and was brought down by centre back Richard. The Ref awarded a penalty and dished out a second yellow card to the defender. Vasquez sent keeper Miguel the wrong way and gave his side a commanding 3-1 lead by blasting the spot kick into the bottom right hand corner.
There was to be no way back for the 10 men of Lanzarote as the clocked slowly ticked away prolonging the pain. Deep into stoppage time and Real Madrid’s second Sub Samuel found himself with a one on one with keeper Miguel and without a defender in sight. The youngster beautifully chipped the Lanzarote keeper who was standing in for the suspended Vilches and completed the 25 minute rout making the score 4-1.
As the old saying goes where there is life there is hope. This Sunday Lanzarote will face mid table Gimnástica. Should Lanzarote pick up 3 wins and a draw from their four remaining matches they would still have a chance.
Personally I believe the bookmakers would give better odds on people travelling to England rather than Lanzarote to pick up a sun tan.
REAL MADRID B 4 LANZAROTE 1
15th April 2010
The Rojillos were in control of this match up until the 65th minute. The game was poised at 1-1 and Lanzarote missed a golden chance to take the lead and from the next move the all whites of Real Madrid counter attacked and scored.
The game began with a good tempo but it wasn’t till the 13th minute for the first threat at goal. Jonathon Torres cleverly set up strike par partner Carlitos for a clear shot at goal from five yards, he shot with venom but a defender lunged in at the last moment and deflected his effort away for a corner.
Four minutes later and Raúl Torres powered in a 30 yard strike but the Gimnástica keeper saved the shot low down at the left hand post.
The first chance of the match for the side from the top north of Spain was to prove costly for the Conejeros (locals). A free kick from 20 yards had been awarded and a simple training ground set play fooled the Rojillos. Two players ran to take the free kick resulting in pretend confusion; a moment later midfielder Cushi beautifully curled the ball around the wall with his left foot into the bottom left hand corner beating the outstretched Vilches to give his side a 0-1 advantage.
Familiar territory for the Rojillos as most the games they have won this season have had to be done after falling behind. For the remainder of the half the Rojillos regrouped and did not allow Gimnástica Torrelavega any access to goal.
With the ship steadied the Conejeros came out for the second half as if their lives depended on victory. Within 20 seconds of the restart Maikel Padrón saw his 20 yard effort fly inches past the post.
In the 49th minute Lanzarote keeper Vilches saved well with his feet following a corner and five minutes later Gimnástica had another chance to extend their lead when midfielder Siro broke through and found himself with just Vilches to beat. The Lanzarote number one stood tall till the last second and then saved brilliantly with his feet.
The Rojillos then took control. In the 57th minute Vladi broke through the centre and released Rúben Rodriguez who in turn instantly found Jonathon Torres. His first time strike was saved well by keeper Iván Crespo then the rebound fell to Vladi but the Lanzarote Captain fired narrowly over.
Two minutes later and Sub Ayoze Pérez blasted a shot in from the right hand corner of the penalty area but his violent strike was met with the strong right hand of keeper Crespo and away to safety.
Just after the hour mark and manager Carmelo Hernández introduced the temperamental but sometimes brilliant Toñito. The Lanzarote gaffer has kept faith with his often criticized winger despite three red cards and countless yellow cards he has picked up this season. What a good decision it turned out to be as the 24 year old turned out to be in inspiring form.
Five minutes later and good work from Toñito led to Vladi combining with a quick thinking Torres for a one two. The Lanzarote Captain struck the ball hard and low from eight yards but his shot was superbly saved and pushed onto the post. The rebound fell to Vladi but again the keeper bravely saved at his near post. With the keeper in such outstanding form and Lanzarote´s luck resembling that of an airline company there seemed to be no way through for the Rojillos.
In the 72nd minute the ever alert Torres struck a shot come cross that went inches past the far right hand post and the boot of Ayoze Pérez. Eight minutes on and Crespo saved low at his right from a Carlitos shot.
The pressure Lanzarote had been mounting finally paid dividends in the 82nd minute. Left back Juachi fired in belter from 25 yards which swerved and deceived the keeper who could only get a hand to it as the ball rocketed into the roof of the net.
LANZAROTE 2 GIMNÁSTICA 1
19th April 2010
U.D. Lanzarote fight back from a goal down and win the game with two goals in the final ten minutes which will give the Rojillos hope for the remaining three matches.
Ayoze Pérez with an 85th minute winner
The Rojillos were now firmly in control and only two minutes from the first goal came the second. A ball passed to Torres in the centre of the pitch was perfectly flicked onto to Toñito galloping down the left. The winger raced on and committed the keeper then unselfishly fed the ball across goal to fellow Sub Ayoze Pérez for a tap in from six yards and amazingly the Rojillos were in front 2-1.
Vladi came close in stoppage time for a third which was again set up by man of the match Torres but the keeper pulled off another great one handed save but it wasn’t to matter as the ref blew for full time.
Is this a stay of execution? Most of the other sides in relegation danger picked up points leaving the Rojillos still bottom and six points and goal difference from safety. The realistic objective is the play off spot with a third division side which is an achievable three point climb with three games remaining.
Next week Lanzarote will be travelling to the Extremadura region of Spain pending the volcano crisis where they will face a critical match against second from bottom Villanovense.
Man of the match Jonathon Torres
The nine consecutive years playing football in Spain’s third league is about to come to an end. Only a miracle will save the Rojillos now. Bottom of the league with two games remaining and their only possibility to salvage anything is to finish in the relegation play off spot. Realistically it is doubtful. Should any of the other four teams above Lanzarote win either of their two matches or draw two, then Lanzarote will be relegated to the Third division.
The Badajoz side went ahead in the 15th minute from a header by defender Manu Cabezas and two minutes later doubled their lead from the penalty spot by ex Rojillo Juanjo.
The Lanzarote manager Carmelo Hernández instantly made a change by bringing on striker Carlitos replacing centre back Faruk. This looked to be a good move as the Rojillos pulled the score back to 2-1 with a long distance free kick from Rúben Rodriguez in the 24th minute.
Five minutes later and the Rojillos had a fantastic opportunity to draw level when Rúben was put through with just the keeper to beat. Unfortunately Lanzarote´s top scorer fired wide as did the Rojillos hopes of remaining in this division.
Three minutes from half time and a great solo goal from Juanjo restored the home side’s two goal cushion as the Rojillos went into the break trailing 3-1.
Five minutes into the second period and it was game, set and match to Villanovense when Juanjo completed his hat trick and gave his side an unassailable 4-1 lead.
VILLANOVENSE 4 LANZAROTE 1
26th April 2010
The noose has tightened for U.D. Lanzarote after failing once again to pick up anything against direct relegation rivals.
Nothing the Lanzarote captain Vladimir can do as his team stare at third division football
To round off an awful day for the Rojillos, defender Andrés Gasparini received a straight red card late on as Lanzarote finished the match with 10 men.
If next week is going to be Lanzarote´s last home game in this division it is against one of Spain’s top sides Real Oviedo. Stan Collymore´s old team is already assured a play off spot when they secured the highest winning victory this season in Spain’s league by battering Vecindario 9-1.
Villanovense have given themselves hope with this victory moving up one place to third from bottom but also on equal points (38) with four other sides including Tenerife B who currently occupy the relegation play off position.
Ex Rojillo Juanjo sinks the Rojillos with a hat trick
Five minutes later and Toñito saw his effort from 10 yards fly inches over the upright as did Vladi moments later from an identical position.
During the entire second half the Rojillos gave their heart and soul with Toñito and Jonathon Torres orchestrating the pressure.
In the 73rd minute a great one two with Carlitos and Toñito saw himself with just the keeper to beat but the Oviedo keeper Serrano who concedes on average less than one goal a game saved at the winger’s feet. Another good effort from Torres produced a brilliant finger tip save from Serrano and Lanzarote´s hopes began to fade.
In the second minute of injury time the leagues third top scorer Manu Busto nailed the coffin shut with a classy individual finish following a counter attack.
The final game of the season is away versus Vecindario with neither side with anything to play for. The Gran Canarian side is sitting comfortable in 11th place and even if Lanzarote win they will finish the season bottom.
LANZAROTE 0 REAL OVIEDO 2
3rd May 2010
It’s all over. After nine consecutive seasons in Spain’s third flight of football Unión Deportiva Lanzarote has been relegated and will be playing football next season against fellow Canarian teams.
Gutted, one of Lanzarote´s great players , club captain and scorer of the goal against the mighty Real Madrid, Oscar Vladimir
Eleven seasons ago the Rojillos made their debut in Segunda B (league 1) but were relegated the same season. The following year they returned as Tercera division (third Division) champions and embarked on an incredible journey both in the Copa del Rey and the league.
In 2003-04 season a young talented extraordinary Lanzarote side won the league but still failed in promotion to Segunda A (championship) because of the Spanish play off system which includes the leagues winners only gaining promotion through a play off.
During those years the Conejeros (locals) enjoyed seeing their island compete and beat some of the Primera Liga´s finest teams. Wins against Tenerife, Mallorca and Athletic Bilbao were some of the highlights of a five year dream as well as narrow losses to Sevilla, Getafe and a late Fernando Torres strike for Atlético Madrid.
The biggest game Lanzarote ever played was in the 2001-02 campaign against Giants of football Real Madrid. After going a goal down from Guti the Rojillos rallied and equalized before the break with current club captain Oscar Vladimir obliging with a dream goal. Zidane and Figo turned on the class in the second period and Madrid ran out 1-3 winners.
Real Oviedo´s travelling fans
Lanzarote will be heading back to the third division with a hat full of memories of success, which has also been their demise. Competing against Spain’s elite has come at great expense and for the past two seasons the existence of U.D. Lanzarote has been in serious threat and was only resolved hours before deadline.
Fittingly it was ex Primera Liga side Real Oviedo that dealt the final blow. After 13 seasons in the Primera Liga the Asturias side fell into a cash freefall and found themselves in the third division. Winning the third division via the play offs last season in front of a thirty thousand crowd was the stepping stone the club needed.
This season they are guaranteed second place with this win against Lanzarote and will be competing for promotion for a second successive season.
Once again the Rojillos seemed to be playing well only for the away side to draw first blood. In the 29th minute striker Mario Prieto blasted in a 25 yard belter that flew past keeper Vilches with the ball nestling into the top left hand corner.
Striker Manu Busto with his 19th strike this season sealing the 0-2 win
Relegation to the Tercera (third) division had already been assured with last weeks loss so pride was the only matter at stake against the Gran Canarian mid table side.
Lanzarote began the better of the two teams with the first chance falling for Ayoze Pérez who tested the reflexes of the Vecindario keeper, Luis, with a powerful shot which was finger tipped away for a corner.
In the 20th minute the Rojillos took the lead. A superb run down the right wing by Ayoze Pérez who outpaced the Vecindario back four then unselfishly squared the ball for striker Carlitos to pass the ball home from eight yards with the keeper being caught in no mans land. The Rojillos had found themselves in unfamiliar territory by taking the lead in a match.
Only three minutes after going in front ex Rojillo favourite Yeray Ortega nodded his new side back on level turns following a corner. Two minutes on and the Rojillos were 2-1 down. A corner swung in from the left was cleared to Toñito standing on the edge of the box.
The Lanzarote front man carelessly gave the ball away and from 20 yards Yeray López sweetly hit a volley beating the Lanzarote keeper Miguel to the right hand corner of the net.
The Rojillos were now back in familiar territory by trailing a game by two goals. The defensive frailties from Lanzarote were fully exposed in this match just as they have been all season. With 85 goals conceded this term, Lanzarote have the worst defensive record in Spain.
Five minutes before the break and the days scoring was complete. A simple cross into the danger zone was met by an unchallenged Yeray Ortega who headed home his second of the day from six yards. The home side went into the interval with a commanding 3-1 lead.
After an eventful first period the rhythm of the match died with chances for either side being few and far between. Manager Carmelo Hernández gave Englishman Ian Robinson a half hour run out and with a little over 20 minutes remaining Lanzarote junior player Roberto got the nod from his manager to make his first team debut.
As the Ref blew the final whistle Lanzarote´s nine consecutive years in Segunda B came to an end. An exodus of players has already begun with Juachi, Moncho, Rául Torres and Carlitos with their bags packed and many more will be expected to follow.
Opportunity will await the youth of Lanzarote as first team positions will be up for grabs as the Rojillos prepare to build for an immediate return to Segunda B.
All fixtures for next season in the third division will be updated on the website around mid August. For any other information you’re welcome to drop me a line.
VECINDARIO 3 LANZAROTE 1
10th May 2010
Lanzarote go a goal up and five minutes later are 2-1 down which pretty much sums up the disappointing season the Rojillos (reds) have had to endure.
Carlitos, scorer of Lanzarote´s last goal in Segunda B
WELCOME TO A NEW SEASON WITH U.D. LANZAROTE 2010-11
16th August 2010
Apologies for the delay in updating but normal service will be resumed shortly. Los Rojillos (reds) kick off the season on the 29th August with an away match in Tenerife versus U.D. Realejos and the following week their first home match will be against the best side in this division last year C.D. Corralejo.
Click onto fixtures for a complete list of this seasons matches.
One for the diary is the derby match against Marítima on the 31st October.
Following relegation U.D. Lanzarote will commence their 40th Anniversary in the Tercera Division (third division) which is the fourth tier of Spanish football.
As ever players have come and gone. Most notably club Captain Oscar Vladimir was offered a good contract with Madrid side Puertollano. Vladi has been a fantastic player for the Rojillos and will be sadly missed. The Lanzarote faithful easily understand his desire to play in higher level football and to represent a club in Spain’s third league is a minimum for a person who has his attitude and ability. Good luck Vladi!
The new captain is the outstanding Rubén Rodríguez who will lead out his side under the orders of the new Mister (gaffer) Quico De Diego. The new manager from Tenerife will fully understand that a play off finish will be his minimum requirement.
English lad Ian Robinson has decided not to re-sign a contract and is currently listening to offers from both England and local clubs on the island.
Both season tickets and gate prices have been slashed. An adult season ticket is 50 Euros, Pensioner 30 Euros and anyone 15 or under is admitted free of charge at Lanzarote. To pay at the gate an adult is 5 Euros and pensioners 3 Euros. Again 15 years or under is free.
The Tenerife side began the game the better of the two sides. In the 11th minute claims for a penalty for the home side was waived away from the official as keeper Alejandro seemed to have brought down striker Rayco.
Minutes later and only a fine save from the 21 year old new Lanzarote goalkeeper kept the scores level after a fine shot from midfielder Juan David from the edge of the box.
The Rojillos (reds) then began to get into their stride. In the 31st minute Lanzarote took the lead. A dangerous free kick swept in by ex Real Madrid player Jotha fell to a host of players but quickest to react was centre back Eliot giving the Rojillos their first goal of the season.
Eliot had played for Lanzarote a couple of years ago but had to take a season out through knee ligament damage and spent last season with fellow local club Marítima.
On the stroke of half time Lanzarote doubled their lead. A free kick a yard outside of the area was fired home by the impressive Ayoze Pérez.
Rojillos new manager Quico De Diego would have been pleased with his team’s first half performance but the beginning of the second half Lanzarote did not commit people forward and were looking to settle with what they had.
The home team had other ideas and on the hour mark Realejos were back in it. Keeper Alejandro was adjudged to have pushed striker Lito and from the resulting spot kick the score line was reduced to 1-2.
In the 84th minute Rojillos striker Rosmen who had spent six months on the side lines through injury came inches away from restoring his sides two goal cushion. His strike was superbly saved by the Tenerife keeper.
With just a minute remaining disaster struck. A cross from the left wing by defender Alex found sub Alemán who neatly tucked the ball in between the sticks believing he had earned a point for his side.
This certainly woke Lanzarote up and two minutes into injury time sub Echedey latched onto a defensive mishap and stole the show planting the ball wide of the keeper earning his side the 2-3 victory.
The Rojillos have only one thing on their mind and that is a swift return to Spain’s third flight of football and starting off with an away victory is definitely going in the right direction.
Next week Lanzarote play their first home game of the campaign against last season’s best side C.D. Corralejo.
GOALS
0-131st min Eliot
0-245th min Pérez
1-2 60th min Dani (penalty)
2-2 89th min Alemán
2-3 92nd min Echedey
U.D. REALEJOS 2 LANZAROTE 3
29th August 2010
U.D. Lanzarote kicked off their Season with a thrilling away win in the blistering heat of Tenerife finding the winner deep into injury time.
A winning start for the Rojillos
The first home game is on Sunday the 5th September at 12 midday against CD Corralejo
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