17/06/2003 00:00
TW
0

REAL Mallorca will now turn their full focus to the Copa del Rey final on June 28 after their hopes of finishing sixth in the league and gaining an automatic UEFA Cup place evaporated over the weekend. Mallorca's 1-1 draw with Recreativo Huelva, who they also play in the final in two weeks time, was not enough to keep alive their chances of qualifying for a place in Europe through the league. However, they can still qualify for the UEFA Cup if they win the Copa final. It effectively means the Islanders' last match of the season, at home to Malaga on Saturday, means very little and there is no doubt coach Gregorio Manzano will rest all his top players. On Sunday, Mallorca -- missing five regulars after Manzano opted to leave them in Palma - took the lead after five minutes when striker Samuel Eto'o fired home from the penalty spot for his 14th goal of the campaign.

Both sides were wary of giving too much away before the final, fielding weakened sides and both playing within themselves.
Recreativo hit back at the start of the second half to draw level through Joaozinho who scored acrobatically past a static Miki to secure the draw.
While Manzano will go to any lengths to keep his players fit before the final, he will be praying Eto'o can stay away from harm's door for two weeks as the Cameroon striker joins up with his country for the Confederations Cup in France. Eto'o flew to Paris on Sunday night and is expected back in Palma a few days prior to the final.