In a vibrant match where only the goal was absent, Manta drew 0-0 with Santa Rita and managed to stay in the Serie B, despite Imbabura's 6-3 victory over Mushuc Runa, this Wednesday afternoon in the last round of the National Championship.
Although Manta and Imbabura finished with the same number of points, the goal average in favor of Manta allowed them to stay in the Serie B.
The constant attacks from Manta's forward Carlos Espínola did not have the necessary effectiveness. After the final whistle, the players from Manta hugged each other and several of them cried after the match ended.
Midfielder Mike Rodríguez led the prayer of thanksgiving before entering the locker rooms at the Jocay stadium.
In Ibarra, Imbabura SC won 6-3 against Mushuc Runa and reached 47 points, minus 15 goals, which condemned them to relegation, while 'Ponchito' only attended to fulfill the schedule of games.
The match continues tonight (starting at 19:30) with key matches in Ambato and Quito, where Técnico Universitario and Aucas respectively, will seek the title of this category.
The Ambato team has 76 units and will host Liga de Portoviejo at the Bellavista stadium; a victory will leave them as champions and contenders to play in the 2018 Sudamericana Cup. Meanwhile, the eastern team needs to win at home against América de Quito. (D)