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Chivas, Santos Have Extra Day To Prepare
Local elections forced Santos to move their Sunday match against Chivas to Monday, but the teams are focused on the match nonetheless.
Oct 18, 2009 7:39:55 PM
The Chivas defense has been steadily improving since the arrival of Raul Arias receiving only two goals in the process. However, Santos has also scored 12 goals at home something that Chivas will have to contend with.
“It’s improved in organization, in not receiving as many goals and in getting better results. The team is taking it step by step and I think it has improved in that sense,“ said Johnny Magallon in a press conference. “We’re going up against a great team, a team that’s been regularly doing well. We know that they have a dangerous offense that stems from a great midfield and that they’ve also played well defensively in Torreon.”
After playing the game that was put on hold so Chivas could play in a friendly against FC Barcelona, three points were added in the win over Estudiantes. The addition helped propel Chivas into second place of Group 1. After weekend play, San Luis took over the second place spot, but three points against Santos could see Chivas once again take over the place and get one step closer to qualification for the Liguilla.
“I think it’s a well balanced team, but we’re also improving. It’s a good opportunity to show every day that we can improve and we need to get results away. We want to be qualified for the Liguilla, but we know that with how things are going it will be difficult, but I believe that we can do it.”
According to Johnny Magallon, the team knows the Santos players fairly well and are aware of their performances during the season.
“I know most of the players. We know ‘Chemita’(Cardenas) is doing well. Ludueña sometimes plays an open game and links up well on the other side with Guty(Estrada). It’s a team that really has variety, but we know that we need to have order in our defense. I think that we can solve whatever may come up with the communication and players that we have,” added Magallon.
Currently Santos are the fourth highest scoring team in the Mexican league, something that Magallon says will have to be carefully be taken into account.
“Offensively they’re very capable. Independently they’re very organized, and they have players that can make the difference. They have players with a lot of influence, that have a good long distance shot. What worries me is being attentive to all their movements, from midfield forward. They have players that are passing through a good moment, and they can be defining.”
Andrea Martinez, Goal.com
For more coverage of the Mexican Apertura 2009 season, visit Goal.com's Mexican football section.
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