1-2. Ibiza shows a gutsy performance to beat Real Madrid Castilla in Valdebebas

Photographs courtesy of Real Madrid C.F.

Ibiza conquered Valdebebas thanks to two Pep Caballé goals. The versatile Catalan (today playing as a right winger) was instrumental in making sure his side was victorious at the home ground of Real Madrid Castilla. Getting back to winning ways was anything but easy for the islanders, however. The reserve side of the Madrid giant wanted to avoid its third consecutive defeat and started the match with a clear sign of intent. It took Castilla a mere three minutes to break the deadlock and take the lead. A good attacking piece of play down the right flank was converted by Fidalgo in the box. Being 1-0 down after such a short time forced Ibiza to do it the hard way, a scenario similar to last weekend's match at Can Misses against Atlético de Madrid B. A fairly conservative quarter of an hour's play was kicked into action when Raí took a shot on goal after being set up by Javi Lara. The Brazilian's shot came dangerously close to finding the back of the net, but just went wide of the goal protected by Castilla's Belman. Ibiza found its rhythm and created a series of chances as the first half went on. The culmination of the squad's growing attempts on goal came in the 36th minute when Morillas launched an incredibly accurate cross in the direction of an oncoming Caballé who popped up and made his way through the Madrid defence. He met the cross perfectly to send the ball into the back of the net and draw his side level. The second half did not see a change in Ibiza's approach. Pushed on and inspired by a 200 people strong group of supporters who made the trip to Madrid, Pablo Alfaro's team began to gain the upper hand in the match. Raising the tempo of play brought the sky blues closer to the second goal which eventually arrived on the 50 minute mark. Raí received a pass by Javi Pérez and then found Caballé in open space. After receiving the ball, he powered his way towards the box of Castilla and did not run out of steam before beating Belman once again with a powerful shot to the near post. With the score now set at 1-2, Ibiza had a clear plan and was meticulous in its execution during the forty minutes of play that remained. Castilla was kept at bay and restricted to a minimal amount of chances. When the home side managed to get close, it was Ibiza's goalkeeper Germán who showed his strength and class with a series of important saves. Coming back into the starting eleven, he then made another important save after a Fidalgo effort which looked very dangerous. Cirio, Sibo and Arranz joined the action on the pitch by coming on from the bench to give the team more power and control of possession until the end of the match. It was an important win away from home for Ibiza which was celebrated with the travelling fans who were in full voice. The club's two main fan groups, the Corsarios and Payeses, made sure that the Estadio Alfredo di Stéfano today was well and truly in Ibiza's hand.