FCBARCELONA.CAT

28.03.2010 19:16

All square in reserve derby (1-1)

The Club’s reserve side, Barca Atlètic, drew 1-1 at the weekend against Espanyol B. They dominated the first half but failed to press home their advantage in a much more contested second half.

Barca Atlètic hang on to second place in the table but will be disappointed not to have closed the gap with leaders Sant Andreu.

First half dominance

The team managed by Luis Enrique dominated the opening 45 minutes. Although the game was fairly balanced in the early stages, Barca soon began to create danger and dominate possession. Elvis and Ilie both had good chances to score but failed to convert.

Barca Atlètic continued to press and it was no surprise when Ilie put the reserves ahead in the 29th minute from a corner kick.

No reaction

However, ten minutes into the second half, Oscar Sielva seized on the first chance of the match for Espanyol B to equalize. Although Barca Atlètic controlled much of the remaining 35 minutes, they failed to create further danger and the match ended in a disappointing home draw.

A lost opportunity

The result leaves Barca Atlètic tied on points with Ontinyent in second place. With Ontinyent and Sant Andreu drawing against Valencia Mestalla and Logroñés respectively, the reserves have missed a good opportunity to strengthen their position at the top of the table.