Pumas’ three game winning streak came to an end as they finished leveled with Pachuca on Sunday. Overall, it was a difficult game for Pumas, who were lucky to escape with a draw as backup goalkeeper, Alfredo Saldivar, came up big a couple of times.
Pachuca took control of the game and was the better team, especially after Kevin Escamilla’s exit for Omar Islas. In addition, Pumas’ injury problems really hurt them today, as Pablo Barrera missed the game through injury and his absence showed. They might also be without Nicolas Castillo, who left the game with an injury.
Both sides struggled in the first half. Few chances were created and the game mostly consisted of fouls and sloppy plays. In the final minutes of the first half, though, Pumas got a corner kick and Dario Veron was left alone to head the ball in. Pachuca's goalkeeper made a great stop, but Veron was able to score off the rebound for a 1-0 lead.
The second half was more of the same, but Pumas was having the better game up until Kevin Escamilla’s substitution. The change looked to make the team more offensive, but aside from a semi-dangerous cross that everybody missed, nothing else was created.
On the other hand, Pumas lost the midfield and Pachuca dominated the game completely. Pumas got lucky that the ref missed a clear penalty off a handball after a free kick, but minutes later, he wouldn't miss another handball, awarding a Pachuca a spot kick.
Franco Jara executed the penalty but Saldivar made a great stop with his feet to deny the leveler.
The tempo of the game didn't change as Pumas defenders spent the rest of the game clearing balls out of their area. But finally, off a free kick, Oscar Murillo headed in a ball to tie the game six minutes from time.
After that, Saldivar had to make another good save from Pachuca, while Pumas had zero chances after the goal. To make matters worse, Nicolas Castillo left the game with an injury.
Pachuca deserved more than a draw but will be happy with an away point. On the other hand, not only did Pumas lose their winning streak and their place with Xolos at the top of the league table, but they might suffer more if they lose Nicolas Castillo for their next game. Although the Pumas forward didn't have a good game, he's still their best offensive threat, considering it looks like Matias Britos will keep missing time because of injury. Injuries are starting to slow the team down as Pumas really missed Pablo Barrera today.
Pumas and Pachuca will now have a Monterrey weekend. Pumas will have a tough game, visiting Monterrey to face Rayados. Pachuca, meanwhile, will go back home to take on the the other Monterrey team, current leage champions Tigres.