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Match Report. Catalan derby ends goalless
RCD Espanyol play out a 0-0 draw with Girona FC
RCD Espanyol were held to a draw by Girona FC in a Catalan derby away at Montilivi, in an action-packed contest that ended in the season’s first 0-0 stalemate.
Los Pericos closed out a busy week of games in the Friday night fixture, having previously met Real Madrid and Valencia.
Girona were out of form, and were chasing their first win of the campaign, whilst Manolo González’ men were looking to put the ghosts of their previous visit to Montilivi last season to rest.
The RCD Espanyol coach made changes to the starting lineup that had featured in midweek against Valencia, but the team retained a clear plan and a well defined approach amidst the modifications in personnel.
The first chances for the team soon arrived, with shots from Roberto and Pere Milla. Espanyol threatened initially, although it was an open game in the first half, with both sides having chances and the goalkeepers being called into action. Marko Dmitrović kept out the home side's first chance with a superb save from Iván Martín. RCD Espanyol responded with two very dangerous shots from Roberto and Tyrhys Dolan, which were parried away by Paolo Gazzaniga.
Defender Clement Riedel made attempts with both a long-range shot and a header that went just over the bar.
Girona in turn generated considerable danger past the halfway line, but Los Pericos’ tight defensive work was key to keeping the door closed.
RCD Espanyol showed dynamic and daring play, typified by Pere Milla’s very dangerous free kick which rounded off the visitors' first half chances.
Girona came out rejuvenated after the break and further subdued Espanyol, who began to struggle a little more -although with it they found more counterattacking opportunities.
Roberto kept winning his duels with the opposition centre back, allowing the rest of his teammates to take advantage and try to slip in amongst the more disorganised home defence.
The tactical battle continued with the changes made by both coaches, as they attempted to make a difference that would take their respective teams in front.
Carlos Romero came very close to scoring with a shot from the edge of the box, just missed the post. The left back then tried again and, once more, came within a metre of scoring.
Pere Milla -who was returning to the starting XI from suspension- tried more of the heroics that have characterised his recent performances. He a clear chance, but shot wide.
The score remained unchanged and the match ended 0-0, giving RCD Espanyol another positive point in their strong start to the season.