Adrian Nino’s stoppage-time volley earns Malaga draw with Espanyol

Adrian Nino struck in the final minute of stoppage time to salvage a 1-1 draw for Malaga against Espanyol in La Liga, although the result did little to improve the hosts’ relegation outlook.

Malaga had begun the season without a victory in their opening seven league matches but started brightly at home. Angel Fortuno was forced into an early save to keep out David Larrubia’s close-range effort as the hosts looked to make their pressure count.

Espanyol responded by taking the lead in the 13th minute. Bryan Zaragoza received Javier Hernandez’s pass, moved inside from the defence and placed a precise finish into the bottom corner.

The visitors came close to doubling their advantage before half-time. Alfonso Herrero denied Roberto Fernandez, while Carlos Puga prevented Hernandez from converting the follow-up as Malaga remained within touching distance.

Malaga continued to search for an equaliser before the interval, but Rafa Rodriguez’s effort from distance did not seriously trouble Espanyol goalkeeper Fortuno. The Catalan side therefore went into the break with a narrow lead.

The hosts resumed with renewed attacking intent and almost levelled when Pablo Martinez’s free-kick struck the crossbar.

Herrero played another important part in keeping Malaga in the contest when he produced a further save to deny Fernandez, who was attempting to score his seventh La Liga goal of the season.

Espanyol’s pressure was not entirely one-way, however, as Malaga struggled to turn their possession into clear openings. Fernando Calero and Martinez both sent efforts over the crossbar as the match moved towards its conclusion.

With Espanyol seemingly on course to claim victory, Malaga finally found their breakthrough in dramatic circumstances. Substitute Nino met Rafita’s cross and struck a superb volley in the final minute of stoppage time, securing a share of the points.

The draw extended Espanyol’s unbeaten record against Malaga to 15 matches, a sequence consisting of nine wins and six draws.

However, Espanyol were unable to take advantage of the opportunity to record only their third away victory in their past 15 La Liga trips. For Malaga, the late equaliser avoided defeat but did not resolve the club’s difficult position after their winless start to the campaign.