Set pieces, key for Sevilla FC “D”
- Sevilla FC "D"
Sevilla FC “D” picked up their first preseason victory thanks to a direct free-kick goal from Edu Mangles and a penalty converted by Abdullah Aljirafi.
The match did not start well for the Sevillistas, after an unfortunate play that ended in an own goal. Nevertheless, the incident didn’t affect the team’s spirit and, right after the restart, they created a chance to equalize. Soon after, another opportunity came for the team in red-and-white through a header from David Torres.
La Rambla, however, also had chances to test Sevilla’s goalkeeper Bob Almenas, who stood firm to keep the scoreline intact. Before the break, Edu Mangles scored the equalizer with a thunderous right-footed strike from a set piece.
The second half began with a great save from Mario Rodríguez, who denied a one-on-one that could have put the opposition ahead. From then on, Sevilla’s pressing and ability to build play from midfield nearly resulted in a second goal, after a fine combination between Pedro Berruezo and Khalid Aljirafi created a one-on-one for Parker Byas, which was well stopped by the rival keeper. Pedro Berruezo himself had another chance to put the team ahead shortly after with a shot from the edge of the box, followed by a third opportunity involving him, Khalid Aljirafi, and Parker Byas once again.
Finally, the deadlock was broken thanks to a well-taken penalty by Abdullah Aljirafi, sealing Sevilla’s first preseason win.
Sevilla FC would like to thank La Rambla CF and the town of La Rambla for their kind invitation and hospitality in hosting this friendly match between our two sides. We take this opportunity to wish them every success in the upcoming season.
Sevilla FC “D” squad list: Bob Almenas, Tomás del Grosso, David Torres, Estévez, Fabián Rodríguez, Khalid Aljirafi, Tristán Figueroa, Edu Mangles, Parker Byas, Manu Cruzado, Pedro Berruezo. Mario Rodríguez, Gavyn Nobles, Borja Tellado, Nacho González, Álex Gonzálvez, Pablo G., Pablo de la Rosa, Fidel Morán, Abdullah Aljirafi, and Raymond Higham.