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Match Report: 0-2 defeat to Villarreal CF
The team lose out to an effective away side
A strong Espanyol showing at the RCDE Stadium, which at times featured some brilliant moments of football, was ultimately unrewarded on LaLiga Matchday 12, as Los Pericos fell 0-2 to a very efficient Villarreal CF. Former RCD Espanyol player Gerard Moreno's goal just before halftime was followed up by the visitors scoring a second after the break, effectively deciding the game.
RCD Espanyol employed a very intelligent strategy against opponents in the midst of a great season and also competing in the Champions League. As usual, they came out with great intensity from the start, and Roberto Fernández quickly made it clear that the team would look for opportunities at every moment.
Manolo González made several changes to the starting lineup from the last league match against Deportivo Alavés, in an attempt to find a way to defeat top-quality opponents.
RCD Espanyol were the better side for much of the game, and were quite sharp in possession, showing great vision in the final third and only lacking composure in their finishing, whilst Villarreal did not pose much of a threat to the defence.
It was, then, somewhat unfortunate when Villarreal took the lead. Moreno, after the ball deflected off Salinas, managed to beat Marko Dmitrovic to hand his side the opening goal.
Espanyol were forced to try and mount a second half comeback after trailing at the interval. They continued to show promise, but suffered another blow from one of Villarreal's strengths: A counterattack. The Yellow Submarine surprised them on the break, and despite a magnificent initial save from Dmitrovic, Alberto Moleiro managed to score the second goal.
The scoreline became very favourable for the visitors, who attacked with lightning speed whenever they could. Moreno had a chance for a third, and in another similar situation, Santi Comesaña hit the post for Villarreal.
In the final stretch, Espanyol could and deserved to score a goal of their own. Tyrhys Dolan, Kike Garcia and Roberto all tried, but their finishing was not clinical enough to convert and prevent a 0-2 defeat.