Lanús being upset in the clásico, Argentinos Juniors being battered by San Lorenzo, River Plate being shocked by Rosario Central and Boca Juniors held by Vélez – it was as if no one wanted to take charge in the title race.
Racing seeing off Huracan, Newell’s bouncing back and Estudiantes, Atletico Tucuman and Independiente all picking up wins has led to a packed top ten.
At the foot of the promedio things aren’t quite so tight but Gimnasia chalked up a hugely important win over Aldosivi. Those two remain bottom and some way from safety but with Patronato also suffering defeat to Central Córdoba, there is a risk of three getting cut adrift.
With eleven matches to choose from (due to Colón playing in the Copa Sudamericana final) here are the eleven that impressed from round thirteen, along with our Player of the round and pick of the goals. Feel free to disagree and leave a comment suggesting who you thought should have made it.
Vélez may feel having played against ten men for half an hour that they should have come away with three points from the visit of Boca Juniors but it took eight saves from Alexander Domínguez to preserve the clean sheet that earned a point.
Luciano Gómez || Banfield
Banfield weren’t fancied to win the clásico in their current position but thanks to some terrific performances became the first side to beat Lanús on their own patch. Luciano Gómez dug in and did well defensively to help keep a clean sheet but got forward well down the right completing four dribbles and two key passes.
Gonzalo Rodríguez || San Lorenzo
Only brought in to the side due to the suspension of Fabricio Coloccini, Gonzalo Rodríguez served a reminder of his talents even at 35 years of age. A towering header gave San Lorenzo the lead and set them on the way to a much needed win over Argentinos Juniors but the veteran’s overall aerial game was outstanding – 13 clearances kept the Bichos out.
Maximiliano Coronel || Gimnasia
Scorer of the goal that kick started Gimnasia’s important win, Maximiliano Coronel vindicated Diego Maradona’s decision to bring him into central defence. Seven clearances, two tackles (100%) and four interceptions, the 30-year-old was a huge part of the win over Aldosivi.
Mariano Bíttolo || Newell’s Old Boys
Bouncing back from consecutive defeats to beat Defensa y Justicia put Newell’s back on track. Mariano Bittolo crossed for the Mauro Formica to head the second goal and was solid defensively with four tackles and seven clearances.
Fernando Gago || Vélez Sarsfield
Up against his former club Fernando Gago produced an assured display at the base of Vélez’s midfield to earn a point against Boca. The veteran won possession six times and his range of passing was on show spreading the ball around the pitch.
Domingo Blanco || Independiente
Domingo Blanco’s performance as Independiente came from behind to beat Godoy Cruz may not have been eye-grabbing but the 24-year-old was constantly involved in El Rojo’s attacks. Two key passes and eight successful dribbles, Blanco worked tirelessly for the team and got some reward during a much improved second half.
Player of the week Matías García || Gimnasia
If there is even the slightest hope for Gimnasia to stay up, Matías García is at the centre. The academy product is vital to Maradona’s side and rolled on the second goal before tucking away a penalty in the win over Aldosivi. Full of industry to track back and quick to counter and create, García is the key man for El Lobo.
Ángel Romero || San Lorenzo
San Lorenzo are yet to see the best of the Romero brothers but Ángel was in good form on Saturday in the excellent win over Argentinos Juniors. A superb cross for Adolfo Gaich to head the second goal and then the calmness to slot in a penalty, the Cuervos will be hoping it is the start of something.
Cristian Tarragona || Patronato
He ended up on the losing side thanks to his teammates stupidity but Cristian Tarragona took his season tally to four with a brace in Santiago del Estero. Two well taken finishes, the 28-year-old plays on the shoulder and is adept at finding that yard of space in the box.
Julián Carranza || Banfield
It wasn’t an easy afternoon for Julián Carranza and even less so after Banfield were reduced to ten men in the clásico yet the 19-year-old still ended up the match winner. A well taken goal sealed it for El Taladro and Carranza’s overall play as the lone striker just reminded many why Inter Miami were so quick to get the youngster’s signature.
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