Monday 15 December 2008

Victory Redux

Since last we met - and I really do need to do something about this - it's been quite a run for El Geta.

First came the stunning 3-1 win over a beleaguered Real Madrid side:



Followed by a three-goal lead at Villarreal that, while followed up by our conceding three, still produced a credible draw:



And then last night was the 4-1 victory over Mallorca (video forthcoming.)

All told Geta are now 9th with four games to go until the halfway point, and one until the winter break.

The outstanding games before the halfway point are:

Osasuna (A)
Deportivo (H)
Numancia (A)
Racing (H)

With absolutely no disrespect to the teams involved this is a decent enough "run-in", and having taken five points from a possible nine against three of the biggest teams, and then thumped Mallorca, we have every reason to be confident.

Down in the Tercera with the B team, things aren't quite so good, yet Getafe B remain six points clear of the dropzone despite the heavy defeat to Alcobendas at the weekend.

AUPA GETA!

Sunday 23 November 2008

Barcelona 1-1 Getafe

A stunning goal from Manu early on at Camp Nou put Getafe on course for an historic result against Barcelona, and although the match ended in a draw it was still an impressive point to gain, and one that ends Barça's nine-game winning run.

Manu del Moral's goal was a peach - a curling, swerving piece of excellence after an error from Gerard Piqué. Seydou Keita's equaliser, meanwhile, was an opportunistic but probably merited goal after a sweet cross from Alves (who, by the way, was left unmarked by Rafa - inexplicably placed on the left at the expense of Licht.)

In the end it was a deserved draw, even though we rode our luck towards the end.

Geta finish the weekend in 14th on 14 points. Depending on how Athletic get on we'll be either three or four points clear of the drop.

Video of the goal will be up when available.

Saturday 22 November 2008

No Longer Top Half

Well, we ain't.

But it's Barcelona tomorrow, and a probable defeat.

Let the good times roll!

Saturday 1 November 2008

Still Top Half

Heading into this weekend's away game at Recre, Geta remain obstinately top half - and this after the Marca reporter had the cheek to hint at relegation by saying we'd been overachieving for four years. (I hardly see how last season comprised overachievement, but ther eyou go.)

The problem here is that we've mostly had easy games so far against your Valladolids, Recres, Sportings, and very soon begins a harsh run of Valencia, Sevilla, Barça, Madrid, and Villarreal. To get three points from that lot would be an achievement, so suddenly getting three points at Huelva seems to be of utmost importance.

The B team, meanwhile, followed up their great start to the season with a six game winless run, which was finally overturned last week with a 2-1 win at Rayo Vallecano B.

Tuesday 14 October 2008

Apologies For My Absence

Hella busy of late. Normal service to resume soon.

The same applies in goal: Pato is back tonight for the Trofeo Ciudad de Zaragoza at the Romareda.

Friday 26 September 2008

Late September Redux

1. The aforementioned game at Espanyol was a 1-1 draw
2. We narrowly lost to Atlético Madrid 2-1 at home midweek
3. Joffre Guerrón has twice almost got into fights in training - his rationale is that he is "envied" by the rest of the squad.

Let the good times roll!

Saturday 20 September 2008

Getafe Lineup At Espanyol

Marca have just confirmed our first eleven to face Espanyol at Montjuïc. It's live on Sky Sports in the UK for those lucky enough to have access; others can no doubt find streams online.

Anyway, the team: Jacobo; Cortés, Cata Díaz, Mario, Licht; Guerrón, Celestini, Casquero, Gavilán; Manu, Albín.

This means that the likes of Uche and Soldado are on the bench. Will it pay off?

AUPA GETA!

Sunday 14 September 2008

Getafe 0-0 Real Betis

How the game ended 0-0 is a mystery due to the wealth of chances at both ends. The Béticos had by far the best of the first period but Getafe came back strongly in the second half.

Highlights:



In any case,the lack of goals from the strikers is beginning to cause concern, but there were a few bright spots. Joffre Guerrón is starting to find his feet - let's hope he finds a final ball - while the defence was reasonably solid in the second half. Jacobo, too, had an excellent debut. Granero, sadly, could be out for a couple of weeks with a knock.

Geta are thus one of five teams on four points, two behind leaders Espanyol, to whom they travel next week for Jornada 3.

Also, Getafe B managed a 2-0 win over San Sebastián de los Reyes to remain undefeated in their Tercera campaign. Javi Robledo struck twice in the second half to seal the home victory, which sees Geta third, equal on points with leaders Fuenlabrada, Alcobendas, and Rayo Majadahonda. Next up is the short trip up the road to face Atlético Madrid C.

Sunday 7 September 2008

International Round-Up

Seven Geta players were called up for internationals in the current break, with all of their countries now having played one game.

First, the worst news: Roberto 'Pato' Abbondanzieri lasted just fifteen minutes against Paraguay in Argentina's World Cup qualifier, which ended in a 1-1 draw. You may remember that Oscar Ustari was similarly afflicted by injury during the Albiceleste's Olympic campaign; now Geta have lost their first as well as second-choice goalkeeper to the Argentine curse. Having received five stitches on his knee, it remains to be seen how long he's out for. Daniel 'Cata' Díaz managed the latter 45 minutes without picking up a knock, at least.

Cosmin Contra played the entire 90 minutes of Romania's match against Lithuania on Saturday afternoon, although he'll wish he hadn't: the Tricolorii were thrashed 3-0 by the Baltic side.

Ibrahim Kas did not feature in Turkey's 2-0 victory in Yerevan against Armenia.

Ikechukwu Uche scored the only goal of the game as Nigeria kept up their 100% record with a WC qualifying win over South Africa away from home. In doing so he eliminated the Bafana Bafana from the 2010 Africa Cup of Nations in Angola.

Joffre Guerrón played the whole 90 minutes as Ecuador beat Bolivia 3-1 to remain just about in the runnings for a place at the 2010 World Cup, unlikely though qualification is.

Esteban Granero opened the scoring against Kazakhstan in the Spain U-21 side's 2-1 win in Almaty before being substituted off with eight minutes left to go. According to Marca he "commanded" Spain's gameplay and was a worthy goalscorer. Great news there, at least, as he helped the young Spaniards to their seventh consecutive qualification win (although it was far from easy.)

Uche has fulfilled his international duties. Granero's U-21s meet Russia on Tuesday the 9th. Contra must still face Wales on the 10th; Cata could play against Peru on the same day (as Pato watches from the sidelines); Ibrahim Kas will meet Belgium, also on the 10th; Guerrón's Ecuador meet Uruguay on Wednesday, too.

Getafe B Draw At Fuenlabrada

Following up last week's 1-0 home win over newly-promoted Colonia Ofigevi - another club from the city of Getafe (I think that their stadium is here) - Geta B pulled off a draw at Fuenlabrada (their ground is here, I think.)

Indeed, they might have won but for a last-minute equaliser that set the scores at 2-2 at La Aldehuela.

Considering that Fuenlabrada were a Segunda B side last season this is a credible result away from home, and one that puts the Azulones in good stead for a crack at the 2B playoffs this year.

Sunday 31 August 2008

Sporting de Gijón 1-2 Getafe CF

Goals from Juan Albín and Javi Casquero gave Geta all three points on Matchday 1.

Although the Azulones were under pressure at the outset, they in fact managed an early goal as Albín seized on a goalkeeping error to finish from close range.

Diego Castro equalised with a volley late on in the first half, and with chances at both ends the second half seemed to be heading towards a draw.

However, Casquero surfaced right at the death with a trademark long-range strike to seal all three points for the visitors.

Videos when available.

Sporting: Sergio Sánchez; Sastre, Ivá Hernández, Jorge, Canella; Matabuena, Míchel; Pedro (Morán 80), Quique Mateo (Bilic 70), Diego Castro; Barral (Carmelo 70).

Getafe: Pato Abbondanzieri; Cortés, 'Cata' Díaz, Mario, Licht (Granero 64); Guerrón (Contra 80), Casquero, Celestini, Gavilán; Albín, Manu (Soldado 64).

Saturday 30 August 2008

Squad For Sporting Gijón - Matchday 1

Freshly lifted from the official site is the convocatoria for the trip to Asturias:

Goalkeepers: 1. Pato; 31. Gonzalo.

Defenders: 2. Contra; 3. Cata Díaz; 5. Mario; 12. Licht; 15. Rafa; 21. D. Cortés; 24. Ibrahim.

Midfielders: 6. Celestini; 8. Gavilán; 16. Guerrón; 22. J. Casquero; 25. Granero.

Attackers: 9. Soldado; 10. Albín; 14. Manu; 18. Uche.

As you can see, Oscar Ustari is out - in fact he is injured long-term. While Geta try to find a loan replacement for the substitute 'keeper role, it's Gonzalo Galán who takes to the bench. Belenguer and Signorino are also injured.

At the back Ibrahim Kas and Rafa could make their Geta debuts, although I'd imagine it's more likely to be a back line of Contra - Cata Diáz - Mario - Licht.

In midfield there are surprisingly few options, but enough for either a diamond or a double pivot. I wonder if Guerrón isn't in line to play on the right; if he is, and Gavilán's on the left, then Granero could play just ahead of Javi Casquero in the middle.

Up front we're spoiled for choice. Soldado seems to be a shoo-in after being awarded the number 9 shirt and signing on with big things expected of him; either Manu or Uche should partner.

Of the new signings only Eugen Polanski and Adrián González have been omitted from the squad. Also not called up for technical reasons are Mario Cotelo, Kepa, and Sousa - no real surprise with those three, who are likely to be squad players for the season as a whole.

VAMOS AZULES!

Friday 29 August 2008

Liga Opener Just Hours Away

In just over 48 hours Geta will line up at El Molinón to contest the Liga opener against newly-promoted Sporting.

As we all know El Molinón is one of the most intimidating grounds in the country, and with the Gijón side being back in the top flight for the first time in a decade the atmosphere is going to be something special. What's more, they just defeated AC Milan in the Villa de Gijón final, too.

But we're not here for Sporting: we're here for Getafe. Geta will contest their first competitive match under the stewardship of Víctor Muñoz, and some of the new signings - not least Soldado - are also in line for their 'meaningful' debuts.

Muñoz said at a press conference yesterday that he was "delighted" with the attitude on show from his players - contrast that to Laudrup at the start of last season, by the way - and added that he wants all three points due to the fact that there is a forthnight between Matchdays 1 and 2. (That's because of the international break.)

There's been little hint as to the starting line-up so far, but a 4-4-2 with Granero providing the invention for Manu/Uche and Soldado does not seem out of the question. I will add more team news as it becomes available.

VAMOS GANAR! VAMOS AZULES!

Monday 18 August 2008

Squad Numbers Announced

The squad numbers for the new season have been announced, suggesting that the squad is closed. Notice that Manuel Tena, Luis Garcia, Pablo Redondo and Nacho - all out on loan - have not been assigned numbers. Furthermore there is not a third 'keeper named in the squad, meaning that Osky's absence must be covered by Getafe B stoppers such as Sancho or Galán.

Soldado will wear the number 9 as planned, while veteran skipper Mario Cotelo dons the number 7 jersey.

1. Ustari
2. Contra
3. Cata Díaz
4. Belenguer
5. Mario
6. Celestini
7. Mario Cotelo
8. Gavilán
9. Soldado
10. Albín
11. Sousa
12. Licht
13. Pato
14. Manu
15. Rafa
16. Guerrón
17. Kepa
18. Uche
19. Signorino
20. Polanski
21. D. Cortés
22. J. Casquero
23. Adrián
24. Ibrahim
25. Granero

Sunday 17 August 2008

Osky Out For Eight Months!

8, eight, ocho. That's how many months Getafe will be without Oscar Ustari after the goalkeeper fell injured at the Olympic Games, which in a footballing context are a waste of time.

Upon hearing of the extent of the youngster's injury, chairman Ángel Torres essentially conceded that Ustari will be unable to play a meaningful role this season.

Osky, a key member of the Copa del Rey and UEFA Cup sides of last season, injured his left foot while attempting to reach a long ball and had to be stretchered off.

Tercera Opposition - Harder Than They Should Have Been

Villarrobledo, a town that sounds made up, celebrated their 50th anniverssary with a match against Getafe at the Campo Municipal de Fútbol "Nuestra Señora La Virgen de la Caridad" (try fitting that in a chant.)

A small, historic town located way, way, way out in the wilds of Albacete, CP Villarrobledo are actually no strangers to Getafe, given that Getafe B play in the same Tercera División group as them.

Nonetheless the first team were a different proposition altogether, and they gave Getafe a tough game. In the end a solitary goal from Ike Uche was the only difference between the sides in front of 2,000 eager fans.

Line-ups nicked from the Geta official site:

VILLARROBLEDO:
Ortíz; Zapata; Seco; Neyra; Cano; P. Domínguez; Dorado; Antonio; J. Blas; Futre y Mario. También jugaron: Borgoñón; DIego; Pepelu; Benítez; Iras; Rubio; Raúl Martínez; Melero; José Luis.

GETAFE:
Pato; Contra; Belenguer; Ibrahim; Rafa; Guerrón; Celestini; Sousa; Adrián; Uche y Soldado. También jugaron: Gonzalo; Cortés; Cata Díaz; Mario; Licht; Mario Cotelo; Casquero; Polanski; Gavilán; Albín; Manu; Kepa y Juanfran.

Sunday 10 August 2008

More Friendly Wins

Yesterday Geta faced Vitesse Arnhem and emerged as 2-0 winners. Uche opened the scoring 15 minutes in; Manu doubled it a quarter-hour later. Overall this was a far, far better showing than most previous games and one truly worthy of admiration. No video yet.

Today, meanwhile, an altered line-up defeated non-leaguers SV Cuiyk 8-0 (eight-nil.) Albín managed the first two, Polanski hit the third, Celestino made it four, and then Albín sealed a 5-0 first half advantage with his third. He made it a personal four just after the break, leaving it to Celestini and Manu to seal the rout.

That concludes the trip to Holland. The guys fly back to Madrid tomorrow to prepare for the final stage of pre-season, comprising a game for the reserves with Villarrobledo, a local derby of sorts with Rayo Vallecano, and finally a trip to Salamanca.

Saturday 9 August 2008

Friendly Round Up Vol. II

Since last we met Victor Muñoz's side slammed Belgian mid-table side Lierse SK 3-0 thanks to goals from Contra (pen.), Granero, and Celestini. Set-pieces played a part; as well as the penalty, Granero's goal was a rather delightful free-kick. Video:



Of course it's great to see us rack up the goals, but the penalty in particular was won via an over-the-top, kick-and-rush ball, the kind of which generally doesn't work against the Liga's more cultured defences. So, there is still work to be done.

Today Geta meet Vitesse Arnhem, although I don't think there's a live stream.

Monday 4 August 2008

Friendly Round-Up

1. FC Nürnberg managed a 0-0 draw with El Geta at the weekend as the Azulones ended the brief German leg of their tour. Marca reports that the new-look midfield pairing of Eugen Polanski and Javi Casquero was positive, which certainly is cause for relief after the debacle against Olympiacos.

Back in the Netherlands, the site of that 2-1 loss to the Greeks, today sees a double training session in anticipation of a meeting with Lierse SK. Two days after that comes a sterner test in the form of Vitesse Arnhem. The day after, a presumably second-string side will go head to head with non-league outfit JVC 31 Cuijk, a mid-table side at the top level of the third tier of Dutch football.

Then it's back to Spain for a local-ish derby with Rayo Vallecano - well done to them for being back in the Segunda, by the way - on the 17th, and three days later it's off to UD Salamanca for the home side's presentation.

Thursday 31 July 2008

Olympiacos vs Getafe - Live

Here.

Enjoy.

Line-up: Pato; Contra, Cata, Mario, Licht; Cotelo (Guerrón 27), Granero, Celestini, Gavilán; Manu, Uche

So far: 1-0 Olympiacos after 43 minutes through former Real Sociedad hero Darko Kovacevic, who scored at a poorly-defended corner. Pato was slightly indecisive; Licht should have cleared the ball at the post; wheover was marking Darko (I didn't see who) failed to deal with their man. Not encouraging.

Full Time Update: It finished 1-0 to Olympiacos. A very poor performance from Getafe, for whom Albín and the youths were the only real stand-outs. Worryingly, Guerrón was awful, as was Contra.

Wednesday 30 July 2008

Soldado Signs - Official

Soldado has officially signed a four-year deal at Getafe from Real Madrid. The Azulones have paid an initial fee of €4m for the Spanish international striker.

This is without question the most ambitious signing of the summer, outranking even the arrivals of Esteban Granero and Ibrahim Kas.

Needless to say Soldado inherits the #9 shirt from Braulio, meaning that he keeps the same number he wore at Madrid last season.

Tuesday 29 July 2008

Pre-Season Starts With A Win; Soldado Approaches

Geta defeated Gimnástica Segoviana this weekend thanks to goals from Manu, Uche, young Juanfran, Cortés, and new signing Ibrahim Kas. Business as usual, really.

Soldado is appararently close to arriving after Madrid accepted a €6m bid. Presumably this comes with incentives and a buy-back clause.

Tuesday 22 July 2008

New Kits Released; Transfer Round-Up

Getafe have released their new strips, which you can see in this short video:



I am personally not a huge fan of the red flashes on the home kit, but the third kit (the black one) is quite attractive.

What the video does not show too well is that the small red rectangle on the back of the neck is in fact the flag of the Community of Madrid:



So, that's nice.

On the incoming transfer front, Roberto Soldado remains a serious target but Real Madrid have upped the ante a bit by summoning him to Austria for their pre-season training camp - it's not thought that they are desperate to keep him, but this is a clear show of strength against Geta's offers. Jaime Gavilán, a definite arrival, has penned a four-year deal. Granero, having signed and sealed his deal, is still pining for a return to Madrid in the future. (Who can blame him?)

Outgoing are Pablo Redondo, who joins Nastic, Nacho, who is loaned to Málaga, and quite possibly Manu del Moral, whom Mallorca are sniffing around.

Sunday 13 July 2008

GRRRRANERO!

We've got him.

Despite his saying last month that he was determined to remain at Real Madrid, Esteban Granero has decided to join up with Getafe on a five-season deal.

There is, however, a buy-back option (as with Ruben de la Red's move.)

Granero made 27 Liga appearances for Los Azulones last season.

Friday 11 July 2008

The Unknown Soldier

As is claiming today that Geta are on the verge of sealing the signature of Roberto Soldado for €8m.

The Spanish international was brought back to Madrid at the beginning of last season following an impressive loan spell at Osasuna, with whom he hit a double-figure goal tally in his first season of any length in the top flight.

As a son of the Bernabéu cantera he was re-acquired amidst much fanfare and integrated into Bernd Schuster's first team squad ahead of the Liga campaign. But as a true son of the cantera he then sat in the stands chewing gum with the rest of the ballast.

In any case the 'boy soldier' is understandably none too pleased at being given the 'number 9' shirt and then treated more like a 99, and thus it will be of little surprise if he flakes out on Madrid during the summer.

Benfica and Espanyol seemed to be close to signing him at one point, but now it seems as though Getafe are in the lead. Should sr. Torres sign the €8m cheque for the 23-year-old Valencian then he will also become our record signing.

In news equally as exciting, Esteban Granero is apparently having second thoughts about his decision to remain at Real Madrid, come what may, next season. Having enjoyed such a stellar season with the Azulones, he may opt to come back if he decides that first team action for the blancos will be a step too far next season.

Thursday 3 July 2008

Oscar Ustari In Argentina Olympic Squad

Osky is one of two goalkeepers called up by coach Sergio Batista for the Olympic Games, which begin in Beijing on August 8th.

The young stopper only made a handful of first-team appearances for Getafe last season, fluctuating wildly between impressive stops and horrific gaffes.

In any case he will look to rebuild his damaged reputation with some fine international showings.

Sunday 22 June 2008

Augusto Fernández Bid Launched

Getafe have put in a bid for Augusto Fernández of River Plate.

The 22-year-old is an attacking midfielder who recently won his first international cap.

He's not the tallest of players but generally works along the ground anyway, and with decent results. In last season's Apertura he played 16 times and scored once; the latter part of the season saw him play a further 14 times. Overall he's managed 3 league goals in 56 appearances.

p.s. It is Muñoz.

Tuesday 17 June 2008

It's Muñoz - We Think

Costacurta etc. have all fallen through, so it looks like the new boss is ex-Recre man Victor Muñoz.

Older readers will remember him as the strong, defensive midfielder who played for the likes of Real Zaragoza and Barcelona as well as *spit* St. Mirren in Scotland.

In terms of management, he hasn't worked since he got the bump from Recre earlier in the season, but prior to that he worked with Panathinaikos, Real Zaragoza, Villarreal, Lleida, Lorgroñés and Mallorca.

No official announcement yet, but the word on the boards is that it's not far away...

... and it's also that many fans don't want it. On the El Botellín board there is a lengthy thread mainly comprising fans who deem his to be a terrible appointment:

http://getafeweb.mforos.com/18849/7093532-plataforma-no-queremos-a-victor-munoz/

Some others seem a bit more pleased with the news, though.

Additionally, both Pablo Hernández and Esteban Granero have left the club for Valencia and Real Madrid, respectively.

Thursday 5 June 2008

Costacurta For Geta?

All kinds of sources are currently saying that Alessandro Costacurta, the former Italy defender, is willing to pack in a coaching job at AC Milan in order to become Getafe's new manager when Laudrup leaves.

This would be an ambitious appointment and one that follows the pattern of employing young guys who are former top-level professionals. In other words, on the surface of it it remains part of the winning formula.

As for whether or not there's any truth in it, though, we'll see.

Thursday 29 May 2008

Pato Wants To Leave?

Roberto 'Pato' Abbondanzieri wants to go back to Boca Juniors, and he says that he'll hold discussions with the club to this effect...

... at least, that's what the press is saying. In fact, his direct quotes were somewhat more measured than that, and he hasn't committed to wanting to leave at all. Good news: he has one more year left on his deal here, after all.

On the downside, though, Esteban Granero, meanwhile, looks almost certain to return to Real Madrid now.

At least Jaime Gavilán wants to stay! I just hope we can land José Manuel Jurado from Atlético Madrid.

Oh - and Angel Torres is wanting to sell up. Anyone got a spare €40-50m going?

Tuesday 27 May 2008

Valverde Un-Close To Getafe

After Ernesto Valverde quit Espanyol yesterday, he added that he's looking to stay in Spain. That's significant: clubs in Greece - and allegedly Turkey - have shown an interest in him, but if he's looking to stay in his homeland then one obvious choice presents itself: Getafe.

I think that Valverde would be a good, stabilising influence ahead of what's set to be a season of transition, and I hope that he is appointed.


Scratch all that. He's joined Olympiacos. Ah, well.

Elsewhere, Angel Torres has been out and about saying that he hopes to hold onto Esteban Granero for another season.

Thursday 22 May 2008

Transfer Round-Up

Busy, busy, busy.

Adrián González, a Real Madrid youth, arrives on loan after a spell at Nastic. He's a midfielder. He's Michel González's son, since you ask. A 19-year-old attacking-midfielder, apparently. Played an incredible 38 out of 42 games in Real Madrid Castilla's relegation season of 2006-07, and 13 so far for Nastic this season, seven as a substitute. (If Nastic go down as well then he's quite clearly a jinx and must be avoided.)

Rafael López, better known as 'Rafa', spent the last while at Valladolid but now moves Geta-wards on a Bosman. At 23 he's more experienced than half the squad and should be prized for that alone. Decent from what I've seen, but I don't think he'll be a Cata Díaz.

Rumour has it that Eugen Polanski has been confirmed. This is an interesting one: he's been flying high at Borrusia Mönchengladbach in the 2. Bundesliga, and although they've now been promoted to the top flight he seems to be on his way to Getafe. This would, if the reviews from Germany are anything to go by, would be a tremendous signing - and an ambitious one.

İbrahim Kaş is another ambitious one. Thankfully, though, he's confirmed: the 21-year-old, who can play across the back line, will definitely be here in summer after ending his spell at Besiktas on a Bosman deal. Excitingly, he's a fully capped Turkish international.

Oh - and Laudrup is leaving. Probably not for Benfica.

AUPA GETA!

Friday 16 May 2008

Laudrup Leaving

Michael Laudrup has told the club that he will be leaving over the summer. Sevilla could be the most probable destination.

Edit: Benfica have also displayed an interest.

Sunday 11 May 2008

Safe

Valladolid 0-0 Getafe, coupled with results elsewhere, means that we're safe.

Video:

Wednesday 7 May 2008

We Are Staying Up!

Wow. Just wow.

Remember when Geta went 2-0 up against Mallorca only to lose 4-2? Well, imagine that in reverse, because Almería a;lso hit an early brace only to suffer at the hands of their hosts.

This time, though, it was the good guys! Albín, Manu, Manu again, and then Granero sealed the goals that might just keep us up this season.

45 points should be enough - especially since Recreativo and Osasuna lost - but it's not certain.

In the meantime, though, AUPA GETA!



Sunday 4 May 2008

Villarreal 2- 0 Getafe

A 2-0 loss: not much else to say. Geta actually started well - especially Braulio - but Villarreal are simply deadly on the counter and have players of extraordinary ability.

Here are highlights:




Saturday 3 May 2008

Squad For Villarreal

Geta travel to on-form Villarreal with survival still very much up in the air. The hosts are aiming for second place (and automatic Champions League entry) so it will be far from easy.

Squad:

Goalkeepers: 1. Ustari; 13. Pato.

Defenders: 2. Contra; 3. Cata Díaz; 4. Belenguer; 12. Licht; 21. D. Cortés; 23. Tena.

Midfielders: 7. Mario Cotelo; 8. Gavilán; 10. De la Red; 20. Pallardó; 25. Granero; 28. Richi;.

Attackers: 9. Braulio; 14. Manu; 16. Albín; 17. Kepa.

I'd personally start Kepa and Albín up front for this one, as I imagine we'll be playing on the counter. Kepa, average though he is, can prepared flick-ons for Juan to run onto. In midfield, it's good to see Pallardó back, but I'm not sure if he's ready to play. In any case, with Casquero injured and Celestini out, he could be called in.

Oh - and Osky wants to stay, apparently, and Michael Laudrup is allegedly Johan Cruyff's choice for the soon-to-be-vacant Barcelona job. Happy days.

Monday 28 April 2008

Getafe 1 - 1 Atlético Madrid

Albín put Geta ahead early on, only for Sergio Agüreo to equalise just before the break. Rubén de la Red had a great chance to assure our Liga survival with a late penalty, but Leo Franco saved it: 1-1 at full time.

In other news, Oscar Ustari told Marca this morning that he's totally determined to leave Getafe. He says that he's enduring unforseen situations and, more ominously, hinted at unrest:

"Everyone speaks well of Getafe, but nobody comments on what happens inside," he said.

That, particularly in light of recent speculation that Laudrup has lost the dressing room, is worrying.

On the other hand, he could merely be embittered. After all, he complains that he's lacked "continuity" in the team. What, exactly, did he expect when he signed om, considering that Pato is the undisputed number one?

He arrived for €6m in summer. I hope that Geta can recoup the costs.

Wednesday 16 April 2008

Valencia 3 - 1 Getafe

A dreadful start eventually saw Getafe lose out despite a spirited second-half recovery. For all that late effort, Getafe just couldn't do enough.

Mata opened the scoring after just four minutes with a great header after Silva's cross, and then former Geta man Alexis did much the same, although both Tena and Ustari could have done more.

Granero gave Geta a glimpse of hope on half-time after converting a stonewall penalty, and while Villa was denied one of his own just after the break, it eventually didn't matter after Morientes headed home the third and final goal from close range after Osky could only parry Baraja's long-range free kick.

Celestini was then given a straight red for a late challenge on Silva right at the death to end what has been a wholly unsatisfying evening for Getafe fans.

Regardless of the damp squib that was the final, it has been a miraculous season to reach both a second successive cup final and the UEFA Cup quarters - and it's not over yet. Hopefully by Sunday we'll be safe and sound in the Liga, and we can try it all again.

AUPA GETA!

Tuesday 15 April 2008

Moment Of Truth

Twenty twenty twenty four (and a bit) hours to go before Geta's second Copa del Rey final in the space of a year.

No squad has been announced yet, but Osky will start in goal ahead of Pato. The referee is Undiano Mallencano.

More details as they become available.

Oh - for those from the UK, Sky aren't showing the game. Ridiculous, isn't it? Never mind: the FA Youth Cup final is on. Yippee.g

Sunday 13 April 2008

You Know What Happened

Nothing can be said about the Bayern game that hasn't already been said, but I'd like to reiterate my congratulations to everyone at the club. To come so close with ten men against so great a side is fantastic. Here's to going further next year. Video soon.

0-0 at the Coliseum at the moment against Zaragoza.

Sunday 6 April 2008

Barcelona 0 - 0 Getafe

Yeah, yeah, they hit the woodwork three times, but I'm not caring. Getafe also had chances, but taking a point from Camp Nou is no mean feat, and certainly good preparation for meeting Bayern midweek.

Vidja:




Thursday 3 April 2008

Bayern Munich 1 - 1 Getafe

As Marca's peerless headline reads: "Bayern, éste es el Getafe."

Yes, this is Getafe, and they've given themselves a wonderful chance of progression.

Bayern were well on top as Luca Toni opened the scoring midway through the first half, but a comedy of errors at both ends in the second period eventually climaxed in a cheeky Cosmin Contra lob levelling the scores.

Now, next week will be very interesting!

Here are the match highlights. It's a lengthy video: Bayern's goal is around the 1:40 mark and Getafe's around 6.



Sunday 30 March 2008

Getafe 0 - 2 Osasuna

On a grim, rainy day at the Coliseum, Osasuna ran out 2-0 winners in a match that saw Cosmin Contra sent off early on.

Miguel Flano opened the scoring... well, just see for yourself:




Hardly encouraging stuff ahead of the Thursday trip to deepest Bavaria, but on the other hand, Geta have quite often gone into European games this season off the back of bad form - the win at Spurs is a great example.

Aupa Geta!

Monday 24 March 2008

Athletic 1 - 0 Getafe

It was a scrappy occasion at soaking San Mames, but eventually Getafe proved second best.

Still, with the UEFA Cup and the Copa del Rey apparently now the prime targets, defeat isn't the end of the world.

Some brief highlights:




Wednesday 19 March 2008

Copa: Racing 1 - 1 Getafe

Getafe are set for their second Copa del Rey final in two seasons after a 4-2 aggregate win over Racing.

Pedro Munitis opened the scoring early on for the Cantabrians, but after Oscar Serrano's sending-off, the Azulones fought back.

However, Marca claims that their goal was fraught with controversy. Uche signalled for his teammates to hit the ball out due to an injury to Ezequiel Garay - who actually had to be substituted after the incident - but Albin either did not see his colleague's order or instead ignored it. Thus he strode forward and played the ball to Casquero, who duly netted in fine fashion.

Regardless of the odd circumstance, that was a vital goal - and it looks like another trip to the final for Getafe fans! (But I doubt we've heard the last of tonight's events...)

AUPA GETA!

Sunday 16 March 2008

Getafe 2 - 1 Racing

Ebi Smolarek opened the scoring early in the second half for Racing, but goals from Ikechukwu Uche and then Jaime Gavilan sealed a morale-boosting 2-1 win for Los Azulones.

That's four consecutive wins in all competitions, no defeats for over a month, and seven victories in the last eight.

Racing 'keeper Toño apparently picked up a straight red, while Braulio followed due to a second booking - does anyone know if a straight red in the Liga carries over to the Copa? I bloody hope so. (Update: Yes, Toño is suspended due to that sending-off. So too is Pablo Alvarez, apparently, who was given a red card while sitting on the bench for protesting. Because Braulio's red card was actually two yellows, he will be able to play. Toño, incidentally, has apologised to Braulio and the referee.)

Remaining unbeaten at El Sardinero midweek will be enough to see Geta through to their second successive Copa del Rey final, too. More news on the squad for that match as it becomes available.

And here's a video of today's goals!


Friday 14 March 2008

Bayern Munich - Getafe

Getafe have been drawn against FC Bayern München in the quarter-final of the UEFA Cup. That's perhaps the toughest of all draws.

Meanwhile, Geta welcome Racing on Sunday in the Liga, before travelling to Santander to play them yet again in the second leg of the Copa del Rey midweek.

It's non-stop.

Wednesday 12 March 2008

Through To The Last Eight

Juan Angel Albin proved too much for Benfica, who spurned one fine chance early on against Getafe and were then largely on the back foot.

In short, a 1-0 home win over the Portuguese side sees Geta through to the quarter-finals of the UEFA Cup 3-1 on aggregate.

The Azulones also thrashed Murcia at the weekend - as such, coach Michael Laudrup is very much a man in demand.

Tonight, though, he'll just be celebrating. What a fine win.

Update: A video of Albin's goal:



Thursday 6 March 2008

Benfica 1 - 2 Getafe

What better way to make up for the disappointment of the 3-3 weekend draw than with a colossal away win at one of Europe's most famous arenas? (Albeit a mostly empty one.)

Oscar Cardozo's hilarious ninth-minute sending-off helped Geta immeasurably, but there was little denying the quality of play on offer at times.

First, Ruben de la Red had a shot from the edge of the area deflected past Quim (fnarr) by Edcarlos.

Midway through the second half, Pablo Hernandez hit a trundler from the edge of the box with sufficient accuracy to sneak in at the far post.

Osky was at fault as Benfica pulled one back; he was partially unsighted, but still should have dealt with Pedro Mantorras' long-range effort.

It's a superb result, and it no doubt has many believing that Geta can make it to the next round. Also encouraging was the input of Braulio, who had a fine first half overall, although he faded a bit later on.

Good times, basically.

And here are the highlights:


Thursday 28 February 2008

Victory Strikes Again

Getafe 3 - 1 Racing Santander

Told you we'd win. Stick with me, we'll go places.

Full credit to the Azulones for fighting back after a poor start to open the scoring through a Ruben de la Red header.

Even greater credit to them for managing to come back from Ebi Smolarek's equaliser: first, Javier Casquero netted, and then Manu del Moral made up for an earlier miss with a fine goal.

Above all, thanks to Pablo Hernandez for setting all three of them up. What a player - the club will need to find someone special to play on the right after he leaves.

The only downsides were injuries to Uche and Belenguer, but there's no word yet on how serious they are.

Dare to dream: could we be set for a second successive Copa del Rey final? Santander is never an easy place to go for visiting teams, but that Manu goal has made me a hell of a lot more comfortable than I would have been at 2-1.

I think I'll be booking another flight to Spain this year...

Copa Del Rey Semi Final, First Leg

Welp, the first leg of the Copa semi-final's about to kick off. Here's the line-up, bogart'd from Marca:

Ustari; Contra, Cata Diaz, Belenguer, Licht; Pablo, De La Red, Casuqero, Granero; Manu, Uche.

Flashpoints: Osky in goal, De La Red and Granero back after their ineligibility at the weekend, Uche up front... and we're going to bloody win.

FORZA GETA!

Sunday 24 February 2008

Real Madrid 0 - 1 Getafe

Incredible.

As if beating AEK midweek by three goals - and being the only Spanish side left in the UEFA Cup - wasn't enough, Getafe are now the only side to have taken points from the Bernabeu this season.

The goal was incredible: with Real Madrid celebrating a disallowed goal, Geta hit on the break, with Uche eventually teeing up the shot and side-footing past Iker Casillas.

For all their attacking masterclass at home, the blancos really didn't offer too much beyond that. Thus, Getafe leave with all three points.

Speechless. Aupa Geta!

Wednesday 13 February 2008

AEK 1 - 1 Getafe

A largely even game in Athens was almost decided by a calamitous defensive error from the hosts.

The Athenians had the best of the first half, but Geta ended pretty strongly, and were rewarde dwith a goal. Manu strode up the right flank and cut the ball across goal to Braulio, but the on-loan Atleti man couldn't quite reach it. Thankfully for Geta, though, the AEK defender cleared the ball dreadfully - and only as far as Ruben de la Red, who stroked home three minutes from time.

However, deep into stoppage time, Blanco netted after a corner to give the Greeks a fighting chance in the second leg.

That gives Geta a narrow advantage ahead of the second leg, although I imagine that AEK will play with much greater intensity than they did here.

If we get through, it's either Nuremberg or - more likely - Benfica in the next round.

Tuesday 12 February 2008

Squad For AEK, And More

Against the odds, the club seems to be wheeling out the big guns for the trip to Athens.

With Liga survival still nowhere near assured, I thought it likely that they'd rotate heavily, but the 18-man convocatoria speaks for itself:

Goalkeepers: 1.Ustari; 13. Pato.

Defenders: 2. Contra; 3. Cata Díaz; 4. Belenguer; 5. Mario; 12. Licht; 19. Signorino; 21. D. Cortés;

Midfielders: 6. Celestini; 8. Gavilán; 10. De la Red; 22. J. Casquero; 24. Pablo Hernández.

Forwards: 9. Braulio; 14. Manu; 16. Albín; 18. Uche.

Well, I suppose it remains to be seen who actually starts, but in any case, confidence is low, as this team isn't half of what it could be with Esteban Granero. We miss you, pirate guy.

In any case, things are still lurching along as usual in the Liga. Three defeats, two wins and a draw since the turn of the year is survival form at best, but who knows, maybe we can get another backdoor European ticket via the Copa. Racing are struggling, so the semi-final could go our way.

Angel Torres, the Real Madrid-supporting chairman, has said that he'll stand down in a year or two. Whether or not this is a good thing is too early to say, but it's remarkable the progress that we've made under him, and he'll always be remembered for that.

Sunday 3 February 2008

Sevilla-Getafe Goals

As promised:




More updates soon!

Wednesday 23 January 2008

Recent Developments

Two wins in a row!

First of all, a spectacular Liga victory over Sevilla - I'll need to dig out the YouTube clips of that game, which was full of awesome finishing and terrible defending.

Now, a deserved 1-0 win over Mallorca. All we need is a clean sheet in Palma and then it's another Copa del Rey semi!

Wednesday 16 January 2008

Oh Dear

Liga form: Poor
Uche: With Nigeria
Cup form: Good
Levante: Done for
Consolation: Scant.

The less said about the last two Liga games, the better, but without Uche, there may be more repeats to come.

Still, Levante - exhausted from their pseudo-heroic loss to Real Madrid at the weekend (sounds familiar, doesn't it?) will hopefully get a good riding tonight to get the spirits up.

Osky will be in goal as Pato is both being rested and hopefully receiving extra coaching of some description after a series of recent errors. Signorino may make a cameo, as might Tena. The midfield's fairly regular-looking, and up front is the usual motley crew. Maybe Kepa can get his confidence back, I don't know.

In any case, expect a four-figure crowd and little worth shouting about. Excelsior!

Sunday 6 January 2008

Squad For Valladolid Game

Goalkeepers: 1. Ustari; 13. Pato.

Defenders: 2. Contra; 3. Cata Díaz; 4. Belenguer; 12. Licht; 21. D. Cortés; 23. Tena.

Midfielders: 6.Celestini; 7. Mario Cotelo; 8. Gavilán; 20. Pallardó; 24. Pablo Hernández; 25. Granero.

Attackers: 9. Braulio; 14. Manu; 16. Albín; 18. Uche.

It all looks fairly regular, except for the absences of Ruben de la Red and Javier Casquero. The former's suspended and the latter is ill, so the midfield pairing will probably include Pallardo and Granero.

That would allow Gavilan to play out on the left, where Granero has been deputising, and make for a balanced middle pairing.

Above all, Uche is back for his first Liga game since... umm, I forget, but either way the Pucela are in for a humping.

Wednesday 2 January 2008

Getafe 4- 1 Burgos

2,500 hardy souls bothered their arses to watch this one - those who skipped it will rue missing Ikechukwu Uche's injury comeback. Our favourite Nigerian scored twice as Geta easily brushed aside Burgos in this second-leg tie.

The first encounter between the sides ended 1-0 to the good guys, and a similar scoreline seemed to be on the cards after an unspeakably dull opening period.*

Still, Uche grabbed one just before the break, before Ruben de la Red made it 2-0 just after half-time.

Uche then got his second from the spot after Andres committed a foul in the box, before a fellow called Nacho Garrido scored a penalty conceded by a man unknown. Still, Jaime Gavilan restored the three-goal advantage on his "debut" - he's back at the club for a second loan spell from drama factory Valencia - with a fourth.

One interesting factor of this game - encouraging scoreline aside - is that Pato was in goal. The talk of Oscar Ustari being moved on seems to be growing louder than ever; normally, he'd be a stick-on to play in a game like this, having played in the first leg.

Anyway, the Liga resumes this weekend as Getafe take on Valladolid.

*I'm going off Marca's live commentary here - understandably, the wise men who run Spanish television were not falling over themselves to broadcast this one, meaning no online stream.