Logroñés 3-1 Athletic Club: Lions Fall In First Preseason Friendly

Eight youth players made their unofficial debuts for the first team (AC)

Athletic kicked off the preseason in disappointing fashion on Saturday as the team was beaten 3-1 by Logroñés at Las Gaunas. With 11 first team players unavailable a total of 8 starlets made their unofficial debuts in the loss. Iker Muniain scored Athletic’s only goal in a rainy second half.

Nico Serrano, Beñat Prados, and Aitor Paredes were named to the starting lineup along with Iñigo Vicente who hopes to earn a place in Gaizka Garitano’s team this season. Going forward Vicente and Serrano were constant threats on the ball and had a number of shots blocked.

When not in possession it was clear that Athletic lacked rhythm with so many key players missing out. Logroñés were able to find holes in the defense at times and managed to open up the scoring in the 38th minute when Zelu converted a penalty to give the hosts a 1-0 lead.

The penalty came after Dani García gave away the ball in midfield. Paredes had made a pass to García in a difficult situation and he was caught between multiple opponents. Dani García then fouled former Lezama forward Lander Olatexea on the counter attack to concede the penalty.

Iker Muniain scored Athletic’s only goal against Logroñés (AC)

Garitano made 10 changes at halftime with only Unai Simón keeping his place on the field. The introduction of Iker Muniain would give Athletic a boost early on as the captain leveled the score just before the hour mark. A cross into the box gave Ewan Urain a shot on goal which was blocked and Muniain was there to clean up the rebound. Jon Morcillo also provided a spark in attack while Ewan Urain proved to be a threat in and around the box.

Logroñés would respond in the 20th minute following a foul by Jon Sillero. Iñaki Sáenz beat Simón with a stunning free kick to retake the lead before Andy Rodríguez scored a header in the final minutes to seal a victory for Logroñés. Losing 3-1 wasn’t the way that Athletic wanted to start the preseason and the squad returned home frustrated with the result.

The players will have the day off on Sunday and will return to training on Monday. Iñaki Williams, Unai Núñez, Iñigo Córdoba, and Unai López will all rejoin the group after being cleared to start training on Friday. Athletic will be back in action on Wednesday when the Zurigorri host Alavés in a friendly at Lezama.

Leave A Comment