Game Recap: FC Barcelona B 0-1 CE Sabadell

Having claimed just 4 points in their first five matches, Barcelona B looked to right their sinking ship and build on their improved performance from the previous week, against Recreativo Huelva. Barca B welcomed a fellow Catalan side CE Sabadell, who after winning their first three games, had dropped points in their last two.

The Lineups were as follows:

BARCELONA B: Mino, Montoya, Bartra, Armando, Planas, Dos Santos, Riverola, Espinosa, Rafinha, Tello and Rodri

SABADELL: De Navas; Oscar Ramírez, Olmo, Toni Lao, Redondo; Héctor Simón, Juvenal, Puigdollers ; Eneko, Lanzarote, Florian.

As usual, Barcelona B lined up in their trademark 4-3-3 formation. Tello got the starting nod in light of his bright play last week and Espinosa slotted in at midfield at the expense of Sergi Roberto. Interestingly, CE Sabadell lined up in the 4-3-3 as well. Then again, Sabadell's manager, Lluis Carreras was a former La Masia tenant and a clear believer in the Barca style of play.

Almost every game that Barcelona B have played this season follows the same script: Domination of possession without the actual end product, goals. This game was no exception, Barcelona B had most of the possession and pleanty of chances to capitalize but, zero composure in front of goal. Rafinha was particularly guilty as he skied the ball over the bar on a one-on-one with CE Sabadell 'keeper De Navas. Rodri and Tello were also among those guilty of failing to break the deadlock. In one of the rare attacks from Sabadell in the 40th minute, Barca B were punished for their profligacy once more. Juvenal, from the edge of the area, struck the ball perfectly and left Mino with absolutely no chance. 1-0 to Sabadell at halftime, and the feeling of deja vu pervaded at the Mini Estadi.

The majority of the second half's play was spent in CE Sabadell's half, with Barca B desperate to find the equalizer. The visitors soaking up the pressure with ease and looking dangerous on the counter attack as the game went on. Tello in particular was the focal point of attack for the B team, having a hand (or in this case, a foot) in every good chance Barca B were to make. One particular chance was a header from Tello that De Navas did well to turn away with his fingertips. Substitute Aaron Bueno had a chance to put the match out of reach late, but was denied by the post. No matter, as CE Sabadell held on for the win and moved up to 3rd in Liga Adelante. Barca B meanwhile, are in the relegation zone and searching for answers to the same questions they have had for weeks now.

Barcelona B continue to monopolize possession but squander their goal scoring chances. If they continue with this form they will surely be relegated come seasons end. One must remember the hard work Luis Enrique did with this squad to bring them up from 3rd division and do something now so that his hard work does not go to waste. Enrique's presence is sorely missed on the sidelines.

Barcelona B will look to move up in the standings and out of the relegation zone next Saturday, as they travel to Madrid to face AD Alcorcon.