Castellón face Real Murcia to close out the year

Christmas is almost upon us, but before Spanish football heads off into the break, Castellón must overcome the challenge of Real Murcia at Castalia on Sunday. The Pimentoneros, another historic club of Spanish football, had high expectations in August, but have certainly fallen short of them so far. They find themselves in 11th place, and have managed to pick up only one win in their last five, against Recreativo two weeks ago.

The history of both clubs has been closely intertwined, and the fans have developed a brotherhood-like relationship after helping each other out during hard times over the years. As such, there should be plenty of visiting fans in attendance, despite the Murcia supporters club controversially cancelling their trip due to supposedly high ticket prices (18 euros, which is the standard price at Castalia).

Murcia assembled, at least on paper, one of the best teams in the division, and were seen as favourites for promotion alongside, Ibiza, Castellón, and Málaga. However, the star signings, especially Rodri Ríos, have so far failed to match their form from last season, and it seems like they are destined for a forgettable mid-table finish this campaign.

Three losses in the last six games have made their original objectives look further away than ever, and a defeat at home last week to Antequera was particularly painful given the side from Andalucía were able to put themselves five points ahead of Murcia, in the last playoff spot.

Castellón return to Castalia after a tough game away at Córdoba, in which they deservedly lost to a side that has been the best in the league over the last five games. Not only was it a loss, it was a game that took a toll on the players physically, and Dick Schreuder confirmed in the pre-match press conference that there would probably have to be several changes for the Murcia game.

Castellón are currently level on points with Ibiza at the top of the table, and will start the game knowing whether or not they have to win to stay there, as the Celestes have an early kickoff at 12:00 against Antequera. With the end-of-year lead at stake for Castellón, as well as their perfect home record, it will hopefully be a game to remember to finish out the year.