Real Sociedad redeem themselves at Anoeta

Xabi Prieto

It was Real Sociedad who broke the initial parity and opened the score at Estadio de Anoeta. In the 18th minute, a cross by Hector Hernandez was headed into the back of the net by Xabi Prieto, beating Antonio Adan. The home keeper was close to saving it, but the ball went in anyway.

Another header

Eusebio Sacristan’s men extended the lead 12 minutes before halftime. Once again, the goal came from a header. This time it was Ruben Pardo who crossed the ball and Iñigo Martinez who finished.

Betis wake-up call

Juan Merino decided to take the risk of making two substitutions at the break. Joaquin came on for Molinero and Van Wolfsinkel did likewise for Fabian, looking to turn the tables. The subs turned to be useful, as Betis improved during the second half.

Away reaction

Six minutes after halftime, Betis were able to put some pressure on by scoring the 2-1. The man in charge of doing so was Ruben Castro, who scored after a cross by Van Wolfswinkel, one of the subs, and Betis believed in the comeback.

Basque resistance

Despite the initial two goal advantage, Ruben Castro’s goal set the alarms off for Real Sociedad. Because of this, with Betis pushing for a second goal to take a point, the Basque defence were extremely solid and efficient to keep the victory at home.