Match preview and analysis: Alcoyano (A)

After thrashing La Nucia 4-1 last week, with a masterclass in the second half in particular, Castellón will visit Alocyano with a huge spring in their step and the hope of making it three consecutive wins. It is arguably the Albinegres biggest game of the season, against an Alcoyano side who until last week were top of the table and looking like the strongest team in the division.

Despite a surprise loss against Cornella last time out, it will still arguably be Castellón’s toughest game of the season so far, and a real test of their promotion ambitions this season. A win could take them top of the table (or at least level on points), and that would be a real statement as the league table is starting to take shape eight games into the season.

Team news

Following last week’s performance, the team is expected to be identical or largely the same against Alcoyano. Torrecilla could rotate Kone into the team, but given Fabricio has played well since he joined the starting XI, he might see no reason to change.

Opponent analysis

Alcoyano’s defence has been solid all season, only conceding five goals in total. Of the goals conceded, two came from set pieces and three came from open play. That said, of those three, one was an amazing goal from 40 yards out, and the other a cross into the box. The only goal conceded from regular build up play was against Sabadell, which suggests they are a team who know how to defend and stay compact. In other words, Castellón’s best chance will likely be from set pieces or crosses, even though Dani Romera does not really fill the target man role that would be ideal in this situation. Trying to play some balls over the top that Dani Romera could latch onto might be the best option given the circumstances.

Offensively, Alcoyano have also taken advantage of set pieces to score, so Castellón will have to stay vigilant, especially when defending corners. If there is any danger man from their side, it would be Toni Alcaina, who has scored three times in seven games for the home side so far this season.

Manager comments

Ruben Torrecilla, Castellón: “The game will basically be decided in the penalty areas and set pieces. In El Collao, games last 95 or 98 minutes and just because you’re winning doesn’t mean you can consider it won. You need to compete until the last minute.

All of the games we played away from home have given me positive feelings however we have lacked a cutting edge in opponent’s box. El Collao is somewhere we can really go and make a statement, but it won’t be easy because we’re playing a team who are comfortable there and we have to adapt as soon as possible. It’s a game where we will have to put a shift in and be concentrated.”