CD DENIA 0-2 CD THADER
By Steve Hibberd
Thader manager Raul Mora was hoping his Rojales-based side could build on their recent 2-1 victory over Tavernes as they travelled north for this Community League clash against struggling CD Denia.
Sitting comfortably in 7th place with 36 points, Thader have put any relegation worries behind them and are now fully focused on narrowing the gap to the league leaders, with the playoffs firmly in their sights.
The 90-minute trip to Denia—a picturesque port city dominated by its iconic hilltop castle—led them to the Estadio Diego Mena Cuesta. Despite the stadium’s 3,000 capacity, fewer than 500 fans were in attendance to witness the visitors take early command.
Thader came out firing, nearly scoring within five minutes when Amin forced an excellent save from Denia goalkeeper David. Just three minutes later, David was again tested, this time clinging onto a Kone header following a corner into a crowded area.
Referee Jose Perez was busy from the start, showing early yellow cards to players from both sides. Thader’s Fran was perhaps lucky to avoid red after a clumsy challenge on Denia’s Ferran just outside the box. Perez, possibly reluctant to reduce either side so early, opted for caution—a decision that didn’t sit well with the home crowd.
Despite the controversy, Thader remained on the front foot, repeatedly unlocking Denia’s defence. Their dominance paid off in the 19th minute when Javi forced a corner, from which Sergio headed powerfully home to put the visitors 1-0 up.
What looked like a promising goal-fest was disrupted midway through the half by a nasty clash of heads, which led to a lengthy stoppage as both players received treatment.
A blood-soaked Fran had to leave the field, a sight reminiscent for older Thader fans of Terry Butcher’s famous injury in England’s 1989 clash with Sweden.
Following the delay, both teams played rather more cautiously and it wasn’t until first-half stoppage time that the action picked up again, with chances falling to Denia’s Ruben and Thader’s Amin.
The second half began slowly but sprang to life on the hour mark when Thader’s keeper Chema produced a fine save to deny Serra. Moments later, Precious broke at pace and was just inches away from doubling the lead, his shot grazing the outside of the post.
The turning point came soon after when Denia’s Castro was sent off for bringing down Amin, who was clean through on goal.
Down to ten men, Denia then struggled to cope with Tremino taking advantage, scoring at the second attempt after his initial effort was parried back into his path by the keeper.
With Denia deflated, and their discipline in tatters, Thader comfortably saw out the remaining 20 minutes, content with a solid performance and vital three points.
Next up, Thader host Beniganim on Sunday at 11:30 am as their playoff push gathers momentum. Check the Facebook page for further information.
