The Yellows defeat Cartagena at the Mini Estadi thanks to a goal from Cheikh
Villarreal B secured three valuable points in the visit of Cartagena to the Mini Estadi (1-0), in a match where the Yellows maintained a clear game plan and ultimately claimed victory thanks to a goal from Cheikh.
Cartagena stood firm from the opening whistle, but the Yellows followed their script to perfection. Solid at the back and dangerous in transition, Villarreal B consistently looked to attack the space in behind, and their strategy paid off in the first half.
The groguet goal arrived in the 25th minute. Following a Cartagena build-up, Álex Rubio pressed Imanol Baz, won a crucial ball and accelerated into space before reaching the byline and delivering an excellent cut-back for Cheikh, who arrived from the second line to fire home.
In added time came one of the most controversial moments of the match. After another break led by Álex Rubio, Rubén Serrano clearly pushed the Submarine forward, but after reviewing the action, the referee decided not to award the penalty.
The second half was largely controlled by the Yellows, although Cartagena maintained their composure throughout. The scoreline, however, remained unchanged.
