Features
MAR 01.03.2016
As the old proverb says 'after a storm comes a calm' and it's frightening just how often this rings true. The world of football is not immune to its storms, for example on the occasions when players are struck down by injuries. In contrast, the beautiful game also offers moments of incomparable joy, such as the emotional high when the ball hits the back of the net.
The latest men to have experienced just what a bittersweet game football can be are Nolito, Imanol Agirretxe, Iker Muniain and Adrian Lopez. After having fought their way back from long-term injuries, the last matchday saw all four toast their return to fitness with goals.
After 11 weeks on the sidelines, RC Celta forward Nolito was on hand to seal victory and earn his side a precious three points against Getafe CF. With a fully-fit hitman champing at the bit, the Vigo outfit can once again aspire to big things between now and the end of the season.
Agirretxe was another returning striker who got his name on the scoresheet this weekend. His late 81st-minute strike saw Real Sociedad continue their march up the Liga BBVA table after the forward's equaliser ensured that La Real put another point on the board. Malaga CF gave the hosts a real game at Anoeta, but the Andalusians were denied victory as the Basque striker made the best possible return after a two-month lay-off.
Although Muniain had been back in the Athletic Bilbao starting XI for several weeks, he was yet to reopen his account after a serious knee injury ruled him out for all of 260 days. Last Sunday, against Valencia CF, the attacker got back on the goal trail to put the visitors 2-0 up in a performance which showed just what a key figure he'll be for Ernesto Valverde's side in the run-in.
Finally, we have Villarreal CF loanee, Adrian Lopez, who got off the mark in his first start for the Yellow Submarine after returning from a period on the treatment table. Adrian's strike against local rivals Levante was greeted with much delight by the Madrigal faithful as the Spanish forward rounded off the scoring in a 3-0 triumph.
There's no question that marking your return to Liga BBVA action with a goal is the best possible way of welcoming in the calm after the storm.
© LALIGA - 2016