Inside Athletic

Recap

Bilbao Athletic have experienced some growing pains throughout the preseason. With several key players promoted or moving on, many new faces have come into the squad. The summer started with wins over Santurtzi and Gernika, but the team has struggled to find consistency.

Following the penalty shootout win over Sodupe, the Kumeak hoped to build on the momentum in Wednesday’s trip to Portugalete. However, that wouldn’t be the case.

Portugalete won a penalty in the opening minutes of the game. Txopi scored from the spot to give the hosts a 1-0 lead which would stand until the break. Bilbao Athletic managed to create chances of their own but were unable to find the back of the net.

Just two minutes into the second half Portugalete doubled their lead with a goal from Diego. The match ended in a 2-0 loss for the Kumeak who will return to Lezama on Saturday for another friendly against Haro Deportivo. Expectations are high this season and Joseba Etxeberria is determined to find the right balance with so many new additions to the team.