Peres-Zeledón and LD Alajuelense drew 1:1 in the sixth round of the Apertura stage of the First Division on Saturday evening. The result leaves both sides with something to reflect on after a match that swung between momentum and frustration.
R. Cisneros gave the home side the lead in the 45th minute, riding a wave of early pressure that had the crowd on its feet. LD Alajuelense responded quickly, with E. Quesada finding the net in the 49th minute to level matters and take the visitors back into the contest.
Coaches made several changes in the second half, looking for fresh legs. The hosts brought on W. Renteria and S. Hernandez at the hour mark, while LD Alajuelense introduced E. Cruz and A. Hernandez shortly after. Further substitutions followed, including E. Quesada being replaced by A. Amador in the 73rd minute.
By then, the statistics told a story of possession without penetration. LD Alajuelense held 52 per cent of the ball and registered eight shots on target, yet could not find a winner. The hosts had the ball less but still managed to test their opponents with three accurate efforts, a conversion rate that was barely above 16 per cent.
The draw keeps LD Alajuelense in fourth place on 11 points after six games, while Peres-Zeledón remain in eighth with five points. The visitors come off a 3:1 victory over Plaza Amador on Wednesday, but this result suggests they still have work to do if they want to close the gap on the leaders.
