Real Sociedad Go Back Top Of LaLiga Santander After Ryan Masterclass
Under a torrent of wind and rain at Balaidos Celta and Real Sociedad produced a thrilling game in which the visitors took all three points and their place back atop the LaLiga Santander table.
Second choice goalkeeper Matt Ryan came into the side and produced a fine display which helped La Real to victory, and second half goals from Alexander Isak and Mikel Merino were enough to secure the win.
As a result, Real Sociedad move three points clear of Real Madrid at the top of the table, though Los Blancos do have a game in hand. Sevilla and Real Betis are also three points adrift of the LaLiga leaders. Celta though, are slipping ever closer to the relegation zone and are just three points clear of 17th place Granada.
Celta flew out of the blocks, and immediately caused Ryan issues, but Nolito was unable to get his effort on target and it brushed the post. Ryan was on hand again moments later when he brilliantly denied Denis Suarez a seemingly certain goal.
Despite Celta being in control, La Real were dangerous as on the counter attack through David Silva, Adnan Januzaj and Merino. But the visitors had to rely on the safe hands of Ryan who made a double save from Denis Suarez and Santi Mina just before the break.
The rain never let up in the second half and just as in the first, Ryan was called into action this time thwarting Brais Mendez. But the breakthrough was to follow soon after.
Isak took advantage of a poor clearance from Dituro and put the ball into the empty net. A cruel twist of fate for Celta who were playing excellently.
As the home side looked to get level, Iago Aspas was through one-on-one but Ryan stood tall, before he saved Santi Mina’s header. And as it was, La Real made sure of the win as Merino headed home a corner, which went in off Aritz Elustondo’s back.
