READY FOR A NEW SEASON

RCD Espanyol’s campaign last season was a rollercoaster ride of emotions and, after a summer of change at the club, the new term looks set to be just as exciting.
Nerves were frayed for several weeks as the team were forced to fight to maintain their top flight status, but that was off-set by the success in the Copa del Rey. Victory in the semi of the cup against Deportivo La Coruna set up a tantalising clash with Real Zaragoza in Real Madrid’s Santiago Bernabeu stadium and it was a game that will long be remembered.
Two goals from Luis Garcia allied with strikes from Raul Tamudo and Ferran Corominas gave Espanyol an emphatic 4-1 victory and led to scenes of wild celebrations.
At the end of 2004-05, the team qualified for the UEFA Cup and expectations were high after a top six finish. The European adventure though did put a drain on resources and the dip in league form was linked to the midweek exhertions. At the end of the season coach Miguel Angel Lotina stepped down and was replaced by former Espanyol player Ernesto Valverde. New players also arrived with Jesus Maria Lacruz joining from Athletic, Moha coming from Osasuna, Rufete from Valencia, Jonatas from Flamengo and Juan Velasco from Atletico de Madrid.
It should be another thrilling ride.