RCD Mallorca produced their best performance of the season to earn a hard-fought point away at Eibar in a 1-1 draw. The result leaves the Bermellones sixth in the Segunda División with 18 points.
Adri Fuentes was the match's key figure, opening the scoring in the 52nd minute with a fine finish from an Adrián Liso pass. It was the striker's sixth goal in ten appearances this season, making him the team's top scorer and a contender for the league's golden boot. The goal capped a dominant first-half display where Mallorca hit the woodwork three times.
Arnau Tenas the penalty hero
The other standout performer was goalkeeper Arnau Tenas. He saved a penalty from Javi Martón to preserve his side's lead at a critical moment. Tenas also made other important stops, including a long-range effort from Adu Ares, underlining his status as a key pillar of the defence.
Eibar's equaliser came deep into stoppage time, in the 94th minute, from the penalty spot via Iván Gil. Referee Iosu Galech awarded two penalties to the home side throughout the match. Mallorca's task was made harder by the second-half dismissal of John Donald, which forced them to see out the final stages with ten men.
Liso shines and the team responds
Beyond the goal, the collective performance offered plenty of encouragement. Adrián Liso was widely considered the best player on the pitch, not only for his assist but for his defensive work, including a key interception that prevented a dangerous corner. In midfield, Antonio Sánchez made eleven recoveries, while Pablo Torre and Álex Sala were instrumental in breaking Eibar's high press.
Manager Luis García was pleased with his team's progression. "It's about having a way of playing that brings you closer to victory," the coach explained after the match. He added that "the team has not only found it after several matchdays where doubts were arising, but can still exploit it further."
This display builds on the positive feelings from the 3-1 win over Las Palmas the previous week. Mallorca are now unbeaten in two and their form over the last five reads two wins, two draws and one defeat. With 12 goals scored and only 5 conceded, they have the second-best defensive record in the division.
The team now turns its attention to another away challenge. Next up is a trip to face Leganés at Butarque on Saturday 24 October, an opponent currently battling near the relegation zone. Sitting six points behind leaders Almeria, Mallorca will look to keep building momentum in the standings. A late fitness concern for Cerdà, who missed out after feeling discomfort in the warm-up, will be assessed in the coming days.
This story first appeared at diariodemallorca.es
