An 81st goal from former Mazarron player Jose Da gave Bala Azul a narrow victory in the local derby in front of the largest crowd in recent years at the Estadio Municipal.
Bala had the better of the early exchanges and it was 15 minutes before Mazarron threatened the visitors goal when Raul Torrano’s free kick was snatched off the onrushing Raul’s head by Bala keeper Gregorio. Six minutes later Raul Torrano’s long throw found Jimmy who hit a fierce shot just over the bar.
As Mazarron came more into the game Chino’s cross from the left was headed down by Raul into the path of Jimmy but his left foot shot was well over the bar. Andreo than made an excellent break down the right but his cross, intended for Raul, was cut out by Gregorio.
At the other end Juan Pedro was troubled by a dipping shot which he managed to claw away and then Diego had a shot which was deflected wide for a Bala corner. The visitors had a penalty appeal turned down and then, on 41 minutes, Boudia conceded a free kick just outside the penalty from which Juan Pedro made an excellent diving save.
The half time interval was marred by the actions of the Bala supporters who were throwing fireworks on to the pitch despite the fact that both teams’ substitutes were warming up and that there were many children playing their own games on the playing area during the break.
Bala started the second half like a house on fire. Diego’s free kick was superbly saved by Juan Pedro who then had to make another stunning save to keep out another long range shot. After 58 minutes Salvador’s shot from 25 yards beat the diving Juan Pedro but, fortunately for Mazarron, went just outside the far post.
Mazarron were relying on breakaways at this stage and Chino’s long throw caused panic in the visitors defence before the ball was headed over the bar for a corner. The on 61 minutes Koko controlled a left wing cross before turning inside and shooting straight at the Bala keeper.
After 71 minutes it was Juan Pedro in action again with another excellent save to keep out former Mazarron player, Diego. The deadlock was finally broken after 81 minutes when Jose Da was allowed to run at the Mazarron defence and hit an excellent shot from just outside the penalty area which gave Juan Pedro no chance.
Mazarron were denied what seemed to be an obvious penalty for handball in the closing minutes but the referee indicated only a corner kick to the dismay of Mazarron players and supporters. Bala Azul just about deserved their victory on the balance of play and went to the top of the league with Mazarron still occupying a mid table position.
Team: Juan Pedro; Raul Torrano; Boudia, Juan Andre; Chino; Raso; Andreo; Koko; Ruben (Steven); Raul (Cesar); Jimmy.
Man of the Match; Juan Pedro
