After losing to Velez Sarsfield and drawing with Arsenal, River needed to win the match against Newell’s Old Boys. Not only was the relegation zone in sight, but the team was losing focus rapidly. In front of a packed Monumental Stadium, River came out in search of three important points. Leandro Caruso, who reached the starting line-up as a result of Mariano Pavone’s injury, was responsible for River two goals and the team’s victory. Although the win was badly needed, the team continued to show signs of frustration creating effective passes and controlling possession. Nonetheless, River defeated Newell’s with a 2-1 score, and moved a few spots on the Torneo Clausura tournament standings.
Leandro Caruso had not officially scored a goal in quite a long time, and he did not want to waste this opportunity to demonstrate that he is still a dangerous player. Having the chance to prove himself, Caruso scored one goal in each half and led the team to victory. Coach Juan Jose Lopez needed Caruso to replace injured Mariano Pavone, but it seems that Caruso may have officially won his spot in the starting line-up. In the other side of the pitch, Juan Pablo Carrizo returned to the squad after recovering from an injury. Although Carrizo officially returned in the match against Arsenal, this match was his homecoming to a crowd that desperately demanded his participation in the squad. Today, Carrizo had many important saves and he clearly controlled any attempt by Newell’s to score.
Like any match for River, it turned out to be more difficult than expected. Visiting teams to the Monumental Stadium always try their hardest to knock down River, but continued fan support always motivates the team to seek the win. I have no doubt that River won, not only by goals, but by the strong fan support in the stands. From this point on, River needs to keep winning games and get closer to first place. Can it be done? Sure, but it will be a difficult road to follow.
Check out today’s goals against Newell’s Old Boys below:
