Caballero denies Girona automatic promotion

Drama, high drama. That's how events on the final day at the Estadio Municipal de Montilivi can be summed up. Just as Girona FC had a spot in the Liga BBVA in their grasp, a goal for CD Lugo in stoppage time deprived them of automatic promotion.

The Catalans came out intent on victory from the off, and on 11 minutes could have made it 1-0 when Miguel Ángel Cifuentes crossed from the right and Fran Sandaza's header inside the six-yard box flew over the Galicians' crossbar. Shortly afterwards, Sandaza saw his shot from outside of the area go just past the right-hand post of goalkeeper José Juan, as Girona’s dominance grew.

And, two minutes after Jaime Mata had been thwarted by the Lugo keeper on a one-on-one on 42', Girona's persistence paid off as they took they lead, Sandaza taking advantage of a great pass from Alex Granell to beat José Juán. Girona were a Liga BBVA team as the sides went in for the break, and the second half got underway with the Catalans enjoying a chance to seal the points as scorer Sandaz hit the woodwork.

Following this opportunity, Lugo looked to go on the attack and Carlos Pita could have equalised with an attempt from inside the area that went over. As the minutes passed, nerves began to take hold and, 17 minutes from the end, Girona custodian Isaac Becerra was called into action to stop a Toni drive. Pablo Machín's men and their home fans were suffering against a Lugo outfit in search of a leveller. With three minutes left Pita had a terrific chance, before in time added on Pablo Caballero netted to leave the scores at 1-1 and spoil the party at the Montilivi. Girona will have another chance to claim a place in the Liga BBVA in the promotion play-offs.