It seems that an “Ogre” was up to his trick in Rosario yesterday as River defeated Rosario Central in an exciting match in Arroyito. The heat was high and the atmosphere was unpleasant but it did not stop roughly 4,000 fans from supporting River in one of the most emotional games this year. River needed a desperate win to keep the positive trend moving forward following the win against Nacional last Thursday. The main attraction besides the match was Cristian Fabbiani. Returning to his former club’s rival, it was an interesting welcome as both fans congratulated and harassed the player. Little did they know that Fabbiani would have the last laugh.
River began the match on a good start with a firm stance on the pitch. Once again, Radamel Falcao and Diego Buonannote were on the attack with Mauro Rosales as “man-in-charge” of making things happen. River did manage to create some chances in Rosario’s side but consistent bad passing eventually led River to lose its cool. Rosario Central did an excellent job holding River back, a factor leading to their first goal. At the 15th minute of the first half, Rosario Central got the lead and the crowd went crazy. The “Canallas” started to create havoc among River’s defense. Juan Ojeda, River’s goalie, had to work double before the half and his efforts showed off. With halftime looming, River’s players were desperate for a break. Regrouping the team would be the winning factor as the second half would prove it.
Coach Nestor Gorosito waited until the 12th minute of the second half to make substitutions, which paved way for River’s new idol to make his first appearance for River in the Torneo Clausura. With commotion in the crowds, especially in River’s side, the demand for the “Ogre” was getting louder and louder. As Cristian entered the field, a new hope was felt in every fan’s heart. Five minutes later, River tied the match with a header by Martin Galmarini causing River to have a winning mentality once again. The goal changed the match. River began attacking more clearly and controlling the ball through out each play. The important thing was to not let Rosario Central catch River off-guard. At the 22nd minute, Cristian Fabbiani did what every fan expected him to do from the start. After eluding a few defensive players, he kicked a powerful shot passed Central’s goalkeeper marking his 1st goal with the club. His celebration triggered excitements with River’s fans as “Shrek” masks were seen jumping through out the crowd. River held Rosario Central until the end of the match and a new victory was official. With two excellent games won, hope is strong for River to win on both tournaments and resurrect the history of the club.
