Aragones defends Carlos substitution

Carlos Dominguez reminded coach Luis Aragones that he has more then two strikers at his disposal by scoring the single goal that secured a 1-0 win and three points against Athletic Bilbao on Sunday. Carlos has been overlooked in recent weeks by Aragones, but when given the chance on Sunday the compact Seville-born striker ran his already tiny legs into the ground and hit a magnificent solo effort for the team when it was needed. Aragones was subsequently booed when he replaced Carlos twelve minutes from full-time. The full points keep Mallorca in a UEFA Cup position for next season and puts pressure on fourth place Barcelona who are now only two points in front of Aragones' team. Mallorca controlled the match against a disappointing Athletic team who failed to create any real chances until the last five minutes of the match. Although missing first team players Samuel Eto'o, Ariel Ibagaza and Marcos Martin, Mallorca never looked troubled with Fernando Niño and Miguel Nadal forming a formidable central defence. Luis Carreras played a great match and linked up well with Miquel Soler on the left, while Albert Luque and Carlos worked hard to keep the Athletic defence on its toes. Mallorca's goal came in the 32nd minute when Nigerian international Finidi, unfairly booed by some sections of the crowd, headed the ball onto Carlos 40 yards from goal. The lightning quick striker held off two challenges and managed to slot the ball past the oncoming Athletic 'keeper Lafuente. A diplomatic Carlos yesterday commented on his substitution that caused the reaction from the 15'000 strong crowd. “The boss has reasons for my substitution. I was tired and was taken off for a fresher player who could play in a position that would help the team to win.”