River Plate are now five games without victory in the Primera after yesterday squandering a two-goal lead against Sarmiento in a sodden Monumental. Iván Alonso and Milton Casco had put Marcelo Gallardo’s side firmly in control against the lowest scorers in the top flight. Caruso Lombardi has made El Verde tougher to beat but after falling behind there appeared to be little chance of a come back with such a limited goal threat. However, Alexís Niz bundled a goal back and in a dramatic finale, the visitors snatched an unlikely equaliser. Leonardo Ponzio had moments earlier been sent off for an elbow and deep into stoppage time, Joaquín Arzura was penalised for a hand ball allowing Diego Cháves to slot in a second from the penalty spot.
Later in Avellaneda, Mauricio Pellegrino found himself under increased pressure after his Independiente side were held to a goalless draw by Olimpo. Despite dominating possession, El Rojo once more struggled to create any meaningful chances and for the fourth time this season, they failed to find the net. Olimpo perhaps had the better opportunities and could have stolen all three points but with a title challenge slipping away from Independiente and supporters disgruntled, Pellegrino is far from secure in his job.
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