Hercules finds itself in a tense stretch as the league schedule tightens. The team faces a demanding path to climb toward the promotion places, with the second classified team also looming as a dangerous rival. In the current scenario, defending the third position that Hercules occupies becomes the most realistic objective, a goal that should not be underestimated for its potential playoff value. A theoretical cross from the pecking order could open up a more favorable route, and achieving a clean draw from the previous round might have nudged them into the final in the opening match. Given the lack of space for excuses, the Alicante squad is committed to maintaining momentum locally, with three matches still to play and a strong emphasis on self-sufficiency to secure promotion without relying on external factors.
Sergio Mora can line up with a full slate of options on this unusual Sunday morning, a day marking the first time Rico Pérez has hosted a match since the season began. The coaching staff is weighing tactical choices after a short break, with Pedro Sanchez returning after a six week layoff and Raul Ruiz facing a seven day ban for accumulated cautions. The club is leaning on its captain and a key Equatorial Guinea midfielder to anchor the lineup, with Caesar Moreno in the mix as a trusted option.
The pressing question for the blue and white coach is who will start on the bench and who will earn a place on the field. The captain, Borja Galan, along with Nico Espinosa, has been tested in multiple combinations as the decision around the 18-man squad for today’s 12 noon kickoff against Melilla comes into sharper focus.
Following the dismissal of Manolo Herrero on February 21, Michael Rivera saw three victories against Eldense, El Ejido, and Levante B, one draw with Alzira, and three defeats against La Nucía, Socuéllamos, and Atlético Pulpileño. The results reflect a cautious but evolving trajectory for the team, with the autonomous city nearing the edge of the relegation zone as the season unfolds, just three points from safety.
Fran Núñez has returned to the ground where he once debuted as a blue and white player. His earlier departure to Barcelona marked a difficult transfer window exit. Since his return, he has consistently contributed on the right flank, showing his experience and readiness to start today if selected.
Points so far in the campaign indicate a narrow battle for promotion. The squad is still chasing the top three, as Melilla in the same period shows resilience in their own matches. Fran Núñez and David Sánchez have left the squad after recent changes, while a youngster will be given minutes on the field and others may miss out due to injury.
Hércules faced a late stumble at Nueva Condomina in the second half, costing them valuable points with moments left on the clock. After a full team training session, the squad returned to Rico Pérez with a renewed focus on securing three more points. The manager eyes reaching the third position and then evaluating the chances in the promotion race, especially if rivals falter in the final stretch.
If Melilla visits Rico Pérez, they will be required to improve away form given their record as one of the weaker visitors in Group 5. They have earned a handful of away wins this season, yet more consistent performances on the road are needed to climb the table, particularly in challenging conditions this morning.
Saturday pre game
►Alzira-Mar Menor 1-0
Fight for Promotion HOUR
►Socuéllamos-Intercity 12:00
►Eldense-Eagles 18:00
►Real Murcia-Puertollano 18:00
►La Nucia-Mancha Real 19:00
CLASSIFICATION POINTS
1- BETWEEN CITY 59
2- LA NUCÍA 56
3- Hercules 49
4- Real Murcia 48
5- March Menor 45
6- ELDENSE 44