El Arabi gives hope to Granada

Granada can dare to dream of survival after beating Getafe CF 2-1 on match day 35 in the Liga BBVA. José Ramon Sandoval enjoyed a dream start to life as Granada coach and this win sees his side move on to 28 points, three from survival, while Pablo Franco's side have 36 points.

Granada began the match taking control of the ball and creating danger. In the 14th minute they took the lead through Youseff El Arabi's penalty. Sandoval's side continued to create chances but it was the hosts who created the best chance to score next. In the 34th minute Fredy Hinestroza forced Roberto Fernández into a fine save to keep the visitors ahead. The Granada goalkeeper made another vital intervention a few minutes later to prevent Javi Márquez scoring in his own goal. On the stroke of half-time, Pedro León scored with a powerful left-footed shot to level the scores.

Early in the second half Pablo Sarabia received the ball on the right and went for goal, forcing Roberto to tip away for a corner. Sergio Escudero had a good opportunity to score from a free-kick that came very close to creeping in. But a few minutes later, Granada struck again. With 59 minutes on the clock Francisco Medina 'Piti' swung a cross towards the penalty spot, where El Arabi was waiting, and the striker converted again to restore Granada's lead. The final few minutes were played in the Andalusian side's area, but they were able to cling onto their lead and in the end left Getafe with all three points.