Back

Match Report: Fernández debut goal downs Real Valladolid

A late winner from the new signing gives RCD Espanyol a 2-1 win

RCD Espanyol claimed a 2-1 win over relegation rivals Real Valladolid in a Friday night fixture, as Javi Puado and debutant Roberto Fernández scored the goals for Los Pericos.

The situation in the table made the match very tense, and Espanyol had not managed to get more than a draw in their last three home games, despite having enjoyed some very good minutes. To start the second half of the season, it was essential not to falter against a Real Valladolid who had squeaked a narrow victory in the reverse fixture.

Manolo González made the decision to include Alejo Veliz in the attack, as he switched things up for the game.

The match started with a clear chance for Leandro Cabrera after a corner taken by Tejero, whilst Valladolid responded with an opportunity for Rosa which Joan García saved.

RCD Espanyol found the breakthrough thanks to Puado, who in his 100th top flight game got the opening goal. It was his seventh of the season, equalling his career best in LaLiga.

Before the break, a couple of attacks came from Valladolid, as Marco André shot wide when in a clear position to score, then Joan García clearing a shot from former Espanyol player Moro.

The challenge for the second half was to avoid the story so familiar from previous games. It was vital to maintain or increase the lead, but history indeed repeated itself and the visitors managed to equalise thanks to a free kick from Javi Sánchez.

However, when Espanyol needed to regroup, González decided to bring new signing Roberto Fernández in next to Veliz. The gamble paid off and he marked his debut by finishing a masterful cross from Omar El Hilali, earning Los Pericos all three points.