Ian Lane reports from the cold and snow of Arrecife, OK so we lied it was very sunny and warm. Just for a moment that made us feel better.LANZAROTE 2 VILLA SANTA BRÍGIDA 0
13th February 2012
Lanzarote have succeeded in their mission of winning their two consecutive home games and have increased the pressure on the leading pack though still remain in seventh spot and five points adrift of the playoffs.
U.D. Villa Santa Brígida had an awful start to the season picking up only two points in their opening six matches that had left them rooted to the bottom of the division, however recent good form has pushed the Gran Canarian outfit up to a respectable mid table position.
The Rojillos dominated the first half but failed in turning this possession into chances. It was bad news in the 21st minute when Lanzarote´s star player Ayoze turned his foot under a challenge whilst he pulled the ball back from the by line. The 25 year old lay down and looked in pain. After a few minutes he tried to run off the injury but didn’t look comfortable and was finally substituted at the break.
The failure into scoring goals this season was all too apparent. The Rojillos won eleven corners in the first half but never looked threatening from any of them. Great passing but the failure to create chances meant that the score remained goalless at the break.
Lanzarote increased the pressure in the second period and with 20 minutes remaining deservedly broke the deadlock.
A corner kick from Ayoze´s replacement Gustavo García was misjudged by the keeper, Javi Betancort rose high at the far post and nodded home to send his side into a priceless 1-0 lead.
A minute later and that lead should have doubled. Winger Toñito showed the visitors defence a clean set of studs as he was put through with just the keeper to beat. The temperamental pacy winger was on another good day but his goal bound strike was well saved by the feet of the Gran Canarian keeper.
The visitors had little option but to press forward and their best chance came in the closing minutes when a free kick on the edge of the area hit the top of the bar and away for a goal kick.
A minute into stoppage time and a dangerous low cross from Echedey beat the keeper and was destined for a tap in for Gustavo García when defender Pancho did his best to clear the danger but could only manage to put the ball into his own net.
The Rojillos had sealed a 2-0 win but on a sour note deep into stoppage time left back Taja who has been in impressive form of late was hustled off the ball, in retaliation he went in with a wild challenge and the Ref was left with no alternative but to brandish a red card.
As I was leaving the ground I spoke to Ayoze and even though he was on crutches he believed his heel injury was not so severe and was optimistic for this Saturday’s game.
Lanzarote have no other choice but to improve on their dreadful away form. One win on their travels this season will have to change if there is any chance of a playoff finish. This must start next Saturday afternoon 18th Feb in La Palma against 14th placed U.D. San Andrés y Sauces.
GOALS
1-0min 71 Javi Betancort
2-0min 91 Pancho (own goal)
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