The home advantage brought Malaga CF a 1-0 victory against Fuenlabrada on Sunday. In a less lucid match than the previous ones at home, the team clung once again to the 'Rosaleda effect' that brings them strength in their matches.
The win came against a Fuenlabrada side who went with all guns blazing in the final stretch, in a match that could have gone either way. Though they may be short of chances or goals, Malaga's commitment is indisputable.
The absence of Escassi and Luis Muñoz led coach José Alberto to vary the players in attack, although this time Sekou was not a starter. The coach sacrificed Paulino, reiterated his commitment to Roberto and, in addition, the presence of Genaro, Ramón and Jozabed in the eleven caused a domino effect: Brandon went on to play on the left side and Kevin was moved to the right.
There were also changes in the rear, with Javi Jiménez on the left side after Cufré's recent poor performances. The swapping of Peybernes and Juande’s positions was striking and allowed Juande, who is faster, to have Víctor Gómez’s back.
Although Malaga started strong, their momentum barely lasted. Fuenlabrada soon took control and Malaga had a hard time getting back into the game. Without the energy of the Escassi-Luis Muñoz pairing, the course of the game changed as soon as Jozabed began to receive the ball at the midpoint.
The appearance of the Sevillian made his teammates grow in confidence. Their large number of touches managed to hold Fuenlabrada back.
Although Malaga had a harder time generating opportunities, they scored in the thirtieth minute. The Blue and White goal originated in a corner, with a shot from Jozabed from the centre that Peybernes headed into the net.
Overall, Malaga responded to the visiting team with character, skill and a lot of commitment. The 'Rosaleda effect' carries enormous weight in Malaga CF's performances, who are now tenth in the league table.
Malaga CF's next match is on Friday 8 October against Valladolid.