The galloping pace that Técnico Universitario had in the Serie B, which allowed them to take a 9-point lead over Aucas, their runner-up, in matchday 37, began to weaken and now it is uncertain whether they will resume their ride. After matchday 40, the eastern club and Santa Rita seriously threaten Rodillo Rojo.
"There are four finals left," said Aucas coach, Darío Tempesta, referring to what remains of the tournament, where the two promoted teams and the champion will be known. The Ambato team is still in first place (72 points), but only 3 points ahead of the former petroleum teams and 5 points ahead of the Vinces.
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"We won one final, but now we are focused on Olmedo; it will be very difficult," said Tempesta, following the 0-2 victory over Colón, in Santa Ana, Manabí.
According to the Argentine, the Quito idol "is doing well" to face Olmedo, Técnico Universitario, Liga (L), and América.
Aucas defeated Colón, who is a candidate for relegation, with two penalties executed by Edson Montaño (32m) and Johnny Quiñónez (89m).
The machine of Rodillo Rojo began to fail just in the final phase. In their last three outings, they lost to Olmedo, Manta, and Gualaceo. In Riobamba, the Andean Cyclone won 1-0 with a goal from Jorge Detona (70m).
Santa Rita defeated Mushuc Runa 0-2 in Ambato and not only is chasing the teams at the top but practically finished off Ponchito. Gustavo Bustamante (7m) and Mario Quintana (39m) scored the goals.
After the defeat of the Ambato team, coach Juan Carlos Garay was separated and Ángel Mera is in charge of the team.
In this matchday, Liga (P) won 0-2 against Gualaceo, away from home, with goals from Mauro Bustamante (29m) and Adrián Vera (90 +1m).
In the lower part of the table, the drama is also present. Manta defeated América 1-0 with a penalty goal from Jorge Palacios (78m), and they are fighting to leave the relegation zone. The battle is against Imbabura, who lost to Liga de Loja, 0-1, at home; Esteban Rivas scored the goal (80m) for Garra del Oso.
"Four nerve-wracking matchdays are coming," said Tempesta, and the phrase applies to everyone who is seeking promotion or trying to avoid relegation. (D)