Estudiantes totally demolished their local rivals Gimnasia (7-0) in the La Plata derby this past Sunday to stay within earshot of Boca Juniors and River Plate (both clubs also secured victories at the weekend) in the Apertura 2006. It was the biggest margin of victory in the long history of these two clubs.

The classy veteran Juan Sebastian Veron, who returned to the club where it all started for him, was instrumental to the scoring and undoubtedly put in his best performance since returning and playing under ex-teammate and National team player, Diego Simeone.

Many of the goals were down to his supply of polished and inch-perfect passing. He gave his fellow teammates the opportunities, and they didn’t disappoint. It was his vision that put them through on goal, though it was their finishing touches that wrote them into derby history lore. Jose Calderon hit Gimnasia for a hat-trick of goals while fellow striker, Diego Galvan added a brace. Pavone and Luguerico both added tallies to the rout.

Trailing 3-0 at half-time, Gimnasia did little to help their cause as they had two players sent of in the 2nd half. Their fans also came under scrutiny as a section clashed violently with police. The ill will did not disrupt the game, however, as Estudiantes when on to celebrate in true fashion.

Estudiantes now face lowly side Godoy and will look to bag another three points to sustain the pressure at the top of the table. River Plate looks also to be poised for victory as they host mid-table club, Rosario Central.

Boca have the toughest test this upcoming weekend as they travel to face Racing Club who are also still in the hunt in 4th spot just outside the top three. If Racing can pull the upset then surely the pressure on new manager, La Volpe will begin to boil.

This entry was posted on Saturday, October 21st, 2006 at 2:40 am and is filed under Soccer World, Argentina, Rick Wall (Head Editor). You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. You can leave a response, or trackback from your own site.