River comes from behind to win 3-1 in and with 6 points lead the B Nacional.
Matias Almeyda’s squad found themselves under pressure early falling behind 1-0 to Independiente Rivadavia in Mendoza, only to turn it around and lead by halftime.
The game started at a very entertaining pace with both sides having their chances. River was pushed forward by the multitude that defiantly made their presence felt despite the outstanding ban on away supporters. It was Independiente though that found the early goal. Mauricio Ferradas got on the end of a long pass over the River back line to shoot the home team into the lead. Leandro Chichizola should have come out to challenge and in the post goal moments was seen in a heated argument with Carlos Sanchez.
River quickly settled the nerves and went on the attack. The equalizer came 10 minutes later when Luciano Abecasis’ cross into the box was headed home by Lucas Ocampos. From there Almeyda’s team began to take control of the game through Carlos Sanchez and Martin Aguirre. With five minutes left in the first half, an exquisite pass from Sanchez
sprang Fernando Cavenaghi free near the end line. Cavenaghi’s centering pass became a mad scramble in the 6 yard box before Aguirre smashed home the loose ball from a few yards out. River had the lead with minutes to go in the first half and never looked back.
The second half stated with River pushing forward trying to close out the game. River’s midfield led the way with El Chori Dominguez again showing a skill level far better than the B Nacional, and Ocampos consistently finding space near the opposing box. In the 26th minute, Carlos Sanchez stole the ball near the right touchline, advanced forward and just when it seemed he would square the ball across to Cavenaghi, he fired a rocket to the far post. 3-1 and the match was decided, sending the 10,000 “neutral” fans into full party mode.
The confidence gained from a game like this will be almost as important to River going forward as the three points were. With the win El Millo stays tied for first place with Rosario Central and will face Desamparados next weekend. Let’s hope the victories keep coming!
