19/8/18
Attendance 12.408
Images: Courtesy of UDLasPalmas.es
After the disappointment of relegation last season, we have seen much movement among players and management. New manager Manolo Jimenez comes in from AEK Athens. Most of his playing career was with Sevilla where he went on to manage the team as well. He also made 15 appearance for Spain’s national team. One of the club’s biggest new signings has been Gran Canaria born striker Ruben Castro back to LP after 14 years away, this much-travelled forward has played for many different clubs including La Coruna and Real Betis.
5 mins in and there is a long stoppage after 2 Reus players clash heads ,the ref stops play when LP were in a good attacking position. But it was a good decision as both defenders had to go off during the first half due to concussion.
Images: Courtesy of UDLasPalmas.es
On 15 mins a good move down the left wing, and the ball finds Mono in space in the box, though he mis-controls the pass, the ball falls nicely to Castro who side foots it into the bottom corner. 1-0 LP.
24mins – the first good chance for the visitors but their shot is just over, from close range.
Another good move down left wing follows, Mono is again involved, playing in a quick centre but the Reus defender manages to clear with another new signing, Rafa Mir, unmarked at the far post.
Another 1/2 chance does come for Reus but their shot goes just passed the post.
HT – Las Palmas 1 Reus 0
Las Palmas have started well and deservedly taken the lead, looking quite comfortable for most of the half. Reus have had a couple of 1/2 chances. They like to play from the back but LP are likely to close them down quickly in the second half and hopefully get a second.
Half way through the second half and the home side are still looking comfortable and in control but need another goal, as we know what normally happens if we don’t kill off the game. Then our wish was granted!
Images: Courtesy of UDLasPalmas.es
A break down the right wing, and the ball is played into the far post where Castro is on hand to tap the ball into the empty net. 2-0 Las Palmas.
Las Palmas now take control of the game with the excellent David Garcia captaining the side, leads by example and shows real commitment to ensuring the home side keep a clean sheet.
No more real chances ensue for either side and the 12,408 home fans go home very happy.
Final Score – Las Palmas 2 Reus 0
The Saint Verdict – a great start to the season. With so many changes it was thought it could take a few games to get going but they played really well and thoroughly deserved the 3 points.
Not a bad crowd considering it was a 21.00 KO on a Sunday night and the Ultras were back in force and giving the team great backing.
It’s a good feeling being top of the league but how long will that last?? ……. PIO PIO
NEXT HOME MATCH – Saturday 25th August V Albacete. KO 19.30
