La Liga Preview: Valladolid - Recreativo de Huelva

Slowly Rising

Last week's loss at the hands of Valencia has hurt the morale at the Valladolid camp, who were finally beginning to find their rhythm. Despite the loss, Valladolid put in a dominant performance with the coach getting his tactics spot on, obviously doing his homework. Coach Jose Mendilibar has asked for more attacking fullbacks and more disciplined holding midfielders.

Still, Valladolid are not expected to be battling for top four spots with the likes of Real Madrid and Villarreal, but if Mendilibar builds on his current squad, then relegation worries will be a thing of the past for this team who are slowly but surely finding their tempo. Consistency is their only problem.

The Pucela will go gung ho in the opening minutes of the game, looking to snatch that decisive early goal.

A Fresh Start

After managing just one win in two months, things seem to have hit an all time low at the Recre camp. The departure of star striker Florent Sinama Pongolle has left the team extremely limited up front. In fact, Recreativo are the least scoring team with a measly two goals, highlighting the serious lack of creativity in the middle and firepower up front. The mauling at the hands of Malaga last weekend has left their fans raging with fury, and some have asked for a change of the management as a whole.

In response to the fans ferocity, the management decided to sack Zamorano, bringing in Lucas Alcaraz, a man who they believe can bring Recreativo out of the ditch they are in. The Spaniard had a successful stint as Recre manager in 2001 through 2003 before moving to new pastures at the Sardinero. Alcaraz has pulled extra night sessions to try and get his team gel smoothly together, which will hopefully result in success on the pitch.

It's a transitional period for El Decano, and must understand that success will not be instant by any means.

TEAM NEWS

Valladolid

Mendilibar was happy with his team's performance last week, but will look to shuffle things around up front. Goitom could make a return and play as a second striker, with Ogbeche right in front of him. The ever impressive Asenjo will stand between the sticks, with Sesma as a free rolling winger.


La Liga Preview: Valladolid – Atlético Madrid
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