Hercules Faces Alcoyano Ahead of the Season’s Key Weekend
The fourth pre-season test places Hercules against a formidable opponent, Alcoyano. The match is scheduled for 8:00 pm this Friday, and it appears likely that the team will finally feature its two pro defenders, Dylan Leiva and Marcelo Djaló, who are currently with Hercules. The Argentine defender had his first appearance against Castellón last Tuesday and performed well, while the Hispano-Bissauan defender was not yet ready for action. Alvarito will miss the game due to ongoing physical illness and will not participate in this pre-season clash.
Hercules has carried a positive mood into the camp despite the limited time together. There have been a few drop-offs among players who joined the pre-season early, yet the squad, under the guidance of Angel Rodríguez, has shown solid signs. In the three matches he has played, he has secured three wins and a clean sheet in each contest.
Blues and Whites prepare for a stiff test against a First RFEF competitor. An hour before kickoff, the home side will present itself to the fans. Alcoyano stands as a historically productive striker for the matchups, and this 44th edition of the City of Alcoy Trophy adds extra intrigue. With Alcoyano returning to the First RFEF, there is a new chapter unfolding in this friendly as Vicente Parras’ squad aims to protect a long winning streak. Since the 2014/15 season, the head-to-head balance has shifted in Hercules’ favor, with seven wins, five draws, and only three defeats, yielding a total of fifteen goals against Alcoyano’s defense.
Hercules’ last victory against Alcoyano dates back to May 23, 2012, and the two sides currently sit in different leagues. Rico Pérez’s team recorded a 0-5 win at El Collao in a notable past clash. Alcoyano has lined up four pre-season friendlies so far, the first three against regional teams Muro, L’Olleria, and Rayo Ibense, all of which ended without conceding. The only setback came in a match against Atzeneta.
The atmosphere around Hercules is one of growing optimism as new signings integrate with the squad. Sergio Marcos and Alvaro Hernaiz, known as Alvarito, have joined with a clear mission to help the club push for promotion to the First Federation. In their public introductions, both players stressed their commitment to the project and the ambition to advance with Hercules next season. Marcos, formerly with Racing de Santander, indicated that the club is headed toward greater things in the pre-season and that the team will continue to grow ahead of the competitive start. He spoke about feeling confident in his future with a big club and expressed gratitude for the belief shown by the coaching staff in this new project. The midfielder also acknowledged the pressure that can come with a move but emphasized the importance of staying focused on contributing to the team’s goals. Alvarito shared that, even when offered more lucrative contracts elsewhere, he chose Hercules because the stadium, the fans, and the environment left a lasting impression. He noted that this could be the defining moment of his career at the club and expressed his excitement for what lies ahead.
Regarding the group’s potential, players and staff alike believe the squad can handle a variety of challenges. The message from the newcomers is clear: the team intends to push through obstacles and maximize every opportunity as the season approaches. The evolving chemistry between the new arrivals and the established core is viewed as a promising foundation for the campaign, with the sense that everything is aligned for a strong run.
As the pre-season progresses, Hercules continues to build confidence both on and off the field. Fans can expect continued updates about lineups, training news, and tactical adjustments as the start of competitive action nears. The focus remains on sharpening performance, maintaining fitness, and strengthening the collective spirit that defines the club.
Notes: This article compiles a snapshot of the recent pre-season activities and player introductions. For further context, readers are directed to team briefings and match summaries published by club communications and senior staff within the club’s public statements.