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ESPNsoccernet: Global |
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Friday, May 23, 2008
Monterrey held despite another Suazo goal
MEXICO CITY, May 23 (Reuters) - Ten-man Monterrey were held
to a 1-1 draw at home by Santos Laguna in the first leg of their
Mexican championship semi-final after taking an early lead
through leading scorer Humberto Suazo.
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The Chilean international put Monterrey ahead after nine
minutes of Thursday night's game when he latched onto Walter
Erviti's pass and chipped the ball over Santos goalkeeper
Oswaldo Sanchez for his 15th goal of the competition.
Monterrey were reduced to 10 men and gave away a penalty
nine minutes later when Severo Meza handled in the area and was
shown a second yellow card.
But Ricardo La Volpe's team earned a reprieve when Daniel
Luduena's shot was saved by Jonathan Orozco.
Santos took control and Orozco saved the hosts again before
halftime when he turned away a powerful shot from Ecuador
striker Christian Benitez.
Benitez levelled in the 63rd minute after playing a one-two
with Matias Vuoso. Santos, who have the better overall record,
need only a draw at home on Sunday to reach the final.
Cruz Azul won 1-0 away to San Luis in the other tie played
on Wednesday with a first-half goal from Miguel Sabah.