Necaxa match review

By: j | August 28th, 2008

Monterrey broke their losing streak with a tough 1-0 victory over Necaxa on the strength of a Humberto Suazo goal five minutes before the half. The match was marred with a dreadful, water-logged pitch and a high level of fatigue from a short week. In-fact I was a bit surprised to see the match not called because conditions grossly limited the action and certainly would have been valid.

Monterrey’s offensive threats were at a premium and the counter attack died with the sloppy pitch conditions. The matches lone goal came off a slick pass from to Jesús Arellano to Chupete who calmly found the back of the net. The Rayos attack was very worthwhile but were turned away by the Monterrey defensive unit over and over and could rarely muster a serious finishing attempt. The Rayados back-four seemed to be making a statement that they can play disciplined Football and proved it last night.

Was it a great match? No, without question it lacked the spark and flourish that I come to expect with the Rayados but this was a very important and composed victory that was terribly needed. In every facet of play it showed a higher level of discipline and insight as they didn’t force attacking situations or leave the goal vulnerable. There is a lot to be said of smart, intelligent Football and this was a welcomed result by a team in-need of leadership and focus.

Monterrey has only a few days to prepare for a critical six-point match against group-leader Santos
at home.