Chomping at the bit, pulling out all the stops to nail a regular first team slot – that’s what I was hoping for from a much changed starting line up in the Copa del Rey 4th round, first leg at Celta Vigo last night. Sadly it didn’t turn out that way, a 2-1 defeat should be easily overturned in the home leg, but this was not an impressive display.

Tenerife started without Nino and Alfaro, preferring Ayoze (pic), Omar, Angel and Dinei as the forward options, but CDT struggled to get over the half way line in the first half hour. Luis Garcia in goal was tested and plucked out a few high balls, often his weak spot, Saulo shot wide after just 3 minutes as Celta looked to conradict their lowly second division placing. Richi had a decent chance from a break but shot wide in a brief respite from Celta’s attacks. Saulo got his goal after 20 minutes, catching the Tenerife defence off guard, another wave followed, this time Michu headed home to make it 2-0.

Celta were rampant and our thoughts went back 24 hours to Real Madrids 4-0 huniliation at Alcorcon. Tenerife managed to rally and put some pressure on their hosts. Ayoze put a good cross in and Richi rose to head the ball in the net on the stroke of half time-phew. The blanquiazul were a little better in the second half, Angel couldn’t carry on after earlier treatment for a nasty gash on his leg, Saizar replaced him for a new forward combination. Arthuro missed an open goal for the home side just before the ineffective Dinei gave way to Nino after 76 minutes. Celta tired but Tenerife couldn’t level the game, Juanlu went close with a header and Saizar hit the post in injury time. The away goal could be vital, but a more convincing performance would be appreciated in the second leg. Like a naughty teenager, Tenerife were just pleased to get the first leg over.