A tense and cautious start
In the framework of the quarterfinals of the OK Men’s League, Igualada Rigat HC won a decisive victory against Parlem Calafell, with a forceful 3-0. The Arlequinats, who finished the regular phase in fourth place, were strong at home, where they have kept a perfect record against the Calafellencos this season, winning all the five clashes they have played so far.
A first time without goals
The first half was marked by a scenario of prudence, with both teams showing great mutual respect. The clear chances were scarce, with the Igualada Rigat trying to take advantage of a direct free kick at the beginning of the game, which was failed by Biel Llanes in front of the goalkeeper of Calafell, Josep Ma Virgili. Another prominent moment was a powerful shot by Marc Carol who ended up crashing against the post, while Aleix Marimon, a former player of Igualada, also saw his attempt lost in iron.
The second half and the decisive moment
With the beginning of the second half, Igualada Rigat intensified its attack, although Calafell maintained a firm defense. With the passing of the minutes, the tenth fault was indicated in favor of the locals, at which time Roger Bars took the opportunity to score a spectacular goal with an unstoppable shot that opened the scoreboard.
Lost opportunities of Calafell
Calafell had a golden chance to tie with three opportunities in a period of only two minutes, but he encountered an impressive Guillem Torrents, the goalkeeper of Igualada. After a free kick, Sergi Folguera could not transform a penalty, and the same thing happened with another direct foul that was successfully defended.
An explosive end
As the weather progressed, Igualada Rigat showed a great capacity for resistance to pressure. Despite a new goal opportunity that was failed by Roger Bars, the locals knew how to maintain the advantage. In the last minute, Calafell chose to play with goalkeeper, but Igualada knew how to take two recoveries to sentence the game, with Marc Rouzé scoring two goals in crucial moments, the second of which came just before the end of time.
Looking to the future
With this victory, Igualada Rigat has placed in a favorable position to advance the semifinals, with the second game of the tie programmed for May 24 in the Joan Ortoll Pavilion in Calafell. A triumph in this match would ensure a place in the next round, while a victory from Calafell would force a third and final game, which would take place on May 27 in the Comes Pavilion.
