News
SUN 20.03.2016
Athletic started well
Athletic Club started the game strongly, fully-focused on extending their run of four straight league wins. Oscar de Marcos was the first to threaten the RCD Espanyol defence, but he skied his shot following a decent cross from Mikel Rico. Then it was Rico's turn to try his luck, but he could not find a way past Pau Lopez.
Eraso grabbed his second Liga BBVA goal
Javier Eraso returned to the Athletic starting XI and repaid his manager's faith in the best way possible: with his second Liga BBVA goal. The 25-year-old midfielder gave the visitors a 24th-minute lead when he latched onto Oscar de Marcos' pass. The Espanyol keeper parried his first effort but could do little when De Marcos drilled home the rebound.
Diop kicked off the comeback
It was a different game in the second half. The half-time break did the Catalans a world of good. They came out searching for an equaliser and did not have to wait long to get their reward. Pape Diop levelled the scores at 1-1 in the 54th minute when he headed home from an Abraham corner kick.
Super sub Caicedo
Constantin Galca brought on Felipe Caicedo in the 53rd minute and the Ecuadorian wasted no time in making his presence felt. Just three minutes after Diop's equaliser, Gerard Moreno crossed into the area. Caicedo controlled well and poked the ball past Gorka Iraizoz with his left foot.
More than just three points
The win over Athletic was an important step in Espanyol's battle to avoid relegation. The Catalans now have 35 points, seven more than 18th-placed Getafe CF. They are now also undefeated in three straight games following a draw with Granada CF and a win over Rayo Vallecano.
© LALIGA - 2016