Real Oviedo had to get back to winning ways today to remove the bitter taste left by Cup defeat and remain in touching distance of the playoff positions, and they did the job. The Asturians got the three points at the Carlos Tartiere, being helped along the way by fantastic backing from the fans.
Ziganda opted for a starting eleven made up of Femenías; Carlos Isaac, David Costas, Dani Calvo, Pierre; Viti, Brugman, Jimmy, Borja Sánchez; Obeng and Borja Bastón. The side improved as the match progressed and put in a great second-half performance, blending quality, finishing, and goals.
The first half got off to a scrappy start, although Real Oviedo controlled the play right from the opening minutes. Los Azules were organised in defence and moved the ball around the midfield well. Alcorcón, meanwhile, allowed Real Oviedo to have possession and looked to long balls to threaten, but barely made it into Femenías' area. Los Carbayones enjoyed the best chances of the first half, with the attackers lively.
The match changed after the interval. Real Oviedo stepped up a gear and got off to a great start, with Brugman making the most of a fine counter to head home and make the score 1-0. With the Asturians now in the lead, Borja Bastón stepped up to grab a brace. His first goal saw him head into the back of the net from a left-wing cross from Brugman. Just two minutes later, the forward converted from a ball cut back from the by-line to make the score 3-0. Ziganda turned to his bench and introduced Matheus Aiás and Luismi, and Los Azules remained in control of the play and had further opportunities to extend the lead. Pombo and Sangalli were next to enter the fray, before they were joined by Joni Montiel in the final substitution. Alcorcón grabbed a consolation goal in added time, with the match ending 3-1.
The Tartiere was bouncing tonight to the sound of the fans who braved the cold and rainy evening to be at the ground. The team and supporters also recovered the traditional 'Icelandic Clap' which followed victories prior to the pandemic. It was the final touch on a day which saw Real Oviedo return, temporarily, to a playoff position, after a two-year absence.
