The initial match lived up to expectations, proving to be a challenging encounter for the higher-ranked team. JOLASETA appeared to struggle early on,perhaps feeling the pressure of being the favorites. The Biscay team worked hard to protect their goal in the first quarter, as CH Carpesa created several chances to take the lead. However, the momentum shifted in the second quarter as the home team found their rhythm and began to dictate the play. This control led to Santi Vilallonga’s goal in the 23rd minute, giving JOLASETA a 1-0 advantage at halftime.

JOLASETA continued to press in the third quarter but failed to extend their lead, despite creating several opportunities. Their best chance came late in the quarter when they missed a penalty stroke.

The game took a turn as JOLASETA faced disciplinary issues, playing 16 minutes with a player disadvantage due to cards. “It is too much time in such decisive meetings,” said Marc Salvatella, the local coach.the situation intensified when Vitali Barberá scored a penalty corner, leveling the score after a series of rebounds that ended unfavorably for the Neguri team.

The final ten minutes threatened to become a nightmare for JOLASETA, but they regrouped and maintained composure. They persistently attacked the rival goal with a collective effort, resulting in Bosco Vilallonga’s goal, which restored their lead. Shortly after, Jan-Aend Thomas converted a penalty corner, sealing the final score at 3-1. This victory is a notable step forward for JOLASETA’s aspirations.

“It has been a victory suffered, but very critically important,” says salvatella. “We have fulfilled the objective we had marked, which was to go to valencia ahead in the tie,” adds the Catalan coach of JOLASETA.

The series will conclude next weekend in Valencia. The Neguri team will have their first chance to secure their place in the MGS Hockey League next Saturday at 11 a.m.If they fail to capitalize on this prospect, they will have a second chance on Sunday at 1:00 p.m. If the Biscayans win either game, they will remain in the highest category. However, if the local team wins both matches, JOLASETA will be relegated to the Honor B Division, and Carpesa will take their place in the MGS Hockey League.