Features
JUE 04.10.2018
10 June 2017. AD Alcorcon escaped relegation on the final day of the 2016/17 LaLiga 1|2|3 campaign by clattering CD Lugo 3-0. The following season they were once again forced to tough it out until the final matchday to avoid the drop, and once again they produced a 3-0 victory, this time against CF Reus. However, the current outlook in southern Madrid could not be more different.
Cristobal Parralo took over the reins of the club in the summer and has helped Alcorcon rediscover their verve. Despite a stumbling start to the campaign with a draw and a defeat in their first two outings, the Andalusian manager has taken 13 out of the last 15 points on offer with four wins and one draw, a run which has catapulted Los Alfareros into fourth place.
Solidity and effectiveness
Including their Copa del Rey clash against Extremadura UD, when a 1-0 win put them through to the next round, Alcorcon have gone for over 500 minutes without conceding a single goal. In fact, they have not seen the back of their own net bulge since suffering a 1-0 defeat at the hands of Malaga CF on 24 August.
Their defensive solidity and some excellent work by the goalkeeper Dani Jimenez have been complemented by their effectiveness in front of goal. Juan Muñoz, one the new additions to the project, has seized the spotlight by netting three in their last two LaLiga 1|2|3 games. Marco Sangalli also stands out with four assists, whilst Jonathan Pereira has already chipped in with a goal and two assists.
Caution
In spite of these exciting times, Parralo is calling on his camp to keep their feet firmly planted on the ground: "The team aren't focussing on the table, but on each game as it comes and trying to avoid relegation as early as possible, always remaining humble, hard-working and respectful first and foremost.”
The team's next challenge will not be a simple one. Their upcoming opponents UD Las Palmas are third, level on points with Alcorcon. Will they be able to extend their run at the Estadio de Gran Canaria?
© LALIGA - 2018