14/06/2014 - 12:25

The final knockout round in the promotional play-offs for the Second Division B will begin this Sunday at 19:00 pm. Los Arcos Municipal ground at Orihuela will be the venue for the first leg duel. An encounter that, according to Óscar Cano, will be “an enjoyable battle of contrasts in which we hope to be triumphant”. Cano also added, that the experience of the yellow team is counteracted by “the energy and mobility” of the Betis players “which will help them to impose”. However, the reserve manager warned about the difficulties presented by a team like Orihuela CF, given their results so far in the playoffs, namely three victories and a draw.

Once again another 180 minutes to gain a promotion: “We've had a very long year, eleven consecutive months with no rest, but we have to make this extra effort if we want to get this promotion. The guys are sensational in that respect. They're always at full tilt and their energy is intact”.

Importance of not becoming complacent: “I think the previous round provoked an air of danger. Having no knowledge of your rivals characteristics and the result in the first leg let their guard down too much in terms of the environment and the group. We came close to being complacent, but fortunately their goal woke us up. I hope we have learned our lesson and that our mood won't cause confusion for us next time”.

Orihuela CF: “They competed in a very demanding group. They have a lot of offensive talent in which their star forward connects well with the wingers allowing the team to come together with as many players as possible encroaching on the goal. They are very vertical and always have an affective presence in the area with skilled players to finish off their attacks. Their experience makes them hard to beat. We must give a sterling performance or it will be impossible to get a good result. Nevertheless, I have complete confidence in my team. They have never failed us”.

Orihuela CF harvested three victories and a draw in the play-offs: “They know how to take advantage of the goals scored and understand what the match is asking of them. They are used to these competitive circumstances. They keep their rivals away from their area and they are just as efficient when they have to closely defend their goalkeeper”.

Do you think their experience could be decisive in the forthcoming match?: “Having experience is important, as well as being a club that is used to fighting for important things. On the other hand, we have the energy and mobility which will help us to impose. It will be an enjoyable battle of contrasts in which we hope to be triumphant”.

The reserves high level of morale: “Our players are full of enthusiasm and are willing to show their abilities. They are young and are hoping to make their mark in this difficult world we live in. We don't lack quality or the ability to tip the balance. If we are capable of focusing on those little details in which they are superior, we'll have a better chance of winning”.  

Players listed for the match against Orihuela CF

Óscar Cano has listed 18 players for the duel against Orihuela CF to be played on Sunday. The listed players are Javi Montoya, Álvaro Ratón, Sofian, Varela, Jesús Muñoz, Isaac, José Antonio Caro, Diego Zamora, Carlos García, Lolo, Eneko, Kevin, Moyita, Isuardi, Álvaro González, Juanma, Marc Mas and Ismael. 

We would highlight the absence of Fausto Tienza, Jorge Muñoz and Ignacio Abeledo because of injury. Andriu and Marco Rosa have almost finished full recovery, but still are not match fit.