La Real took all three points on their first game of the year at the Reale Arena. The realistas went into this afternoon's game against Celta de Vigo looking to get back to winning ways, which they did thanks to an early goal by Mikel Oyarzabal. However, they deserved a better result.
The txuri urdin went all out trying to end their bad run of results in LaLiga and that was soon reflected on the scoreboard. With 15 minutes played, Merino played in Oyarzabal but his effort was denied by Dituro. Nevertheless, our captain made no mistake when he pounced on the rebound and fired the ball home. Celta played well, although they were unable to trouble Remiro. Imanol’s side could have extended their lead but neither Aritz nor Merino were able to score their headers.
The hosts continued to pile on the pressure after the break and Merino almost produced the second goal for la Real after a corner kick. The side from San Sebastián deserved to add another. Rafinha could have scored his first goal as a txuri urdin player after a fine cross from Merino, but the midfielder missed the target. The realistas proved their mettle on the way to their first win of the year whereas Celta were unable to give their all to equalize.
A much-needed victory to get back to winning ways and remain towards the top of the table. Aupa, Real!
Match sheet:
Real Sociedad: Remiro, Gorosabel (Zaldua, min.78), Aritz, Le Normand, Aihen, Guevara (Zubimendi, min.88), Merino, Rafael (Guridi, min.78), Oyarzabal (cap), Januzaj (Lobete, min.78) and Isak (Portu, min.39).
RC Celta de Vigo: Dituro, Hugo Mallo (cap), Aidoo, Araujo, Galán, Beltrán, Denis (Galhardo, min.80), Brais, Cervi (Nolito, min.58), Santi Mina and Iago Aspas.
Goals: 1-0: Oyarzabal, min.13.
Referee: Cuadra Fernández. Cautioned Portu, Aritz and Merino for Real Sociedad and Santi Mina, Iago Aspas, Galhardo and Galán for Celta de Vigo.
Attendance: 27,938 spectators.