UD Las Palmas got back to winning ways and with goals, with a victory that puts their recent poor run behind them. CD Numancia played well, but Jiménez’s team played in a style required by this level of football. UD Las Palmas made the most of set pieces in the first half to storm ahead with two goals in just 20 minutes. In the first minute of the match Sergio Araujo got in ahead of the visiting defence to force the ball into the net following a cross from the left. Despite Numancia dominating possession, the home side (today wearing a pink kit) scored another goal following a well-worked free kick that Rafa Mir headed home.
Las Palmas look a completely different side with Argentine striker Sergio Araujo. His mobility and quick forward movement create spaces for team-mates such as Rubén Castro and Rafa Mir to get a look in on goal. The early goals gave Manolo Jiménez’s side a great lift, as they tried to play in a more practical style. The manager strengthened his midfield with the presence of anchorman Javi Castellano who was helping Timor and Galarreta with defensive duties.
CD Numancia were unable to get the ball on the floor and use the wings. They tried to do so every way they could, but this afternoon they came up against a very solid UD Las Palmas that was giving nothing away in defence. Nacho, with a low shot from the edge of the box, nearly pulled a goal back in his team’s final attack of the first half.
In the second half, UD Las Palmas had more than enough chances to have scored a hatful of goals. Sergio Araujo hit the post, and two one on one’s by Rafa Mir could have put the game to bed. The away side perked up and threatened on occasions to get back into the match. The straight red card sending off of Escassi made life much easier for Las Palmas, who just two minutes later put the match beyond their opponents’ reach with the third and final goal by Maikel Mesa.
