1922 Copa del Rey final

Summary

In the first half, Real Unión dominated the game and possession, but this did not translate into clear scoring opportunities. On the other hand, Jack Greenwell's Barcelona was much more effective in front of goal, and scored the first goal in the 22nd minute with a shot from Ramón Torralba that surprised Domingo Muguruza. The goal renewed the team and in the next few minutes appeared that the "unionists" could turn the result around, however, a header from Josep Samitier made it 2–1, and on the stroke of half-time, Paulino Alcántara scored the 3–1 that seemed to seal the game.

However, the second half was almost completely dominated by Real Unión, but again they were unable to score any goals, due to good performances from Barça's defenders José Planas Artés and Salvador Surroca, and especially, of goalkeeper Ricardo Zamora, who made some superb saves. With six minutes left in the game, Surroca brought down Patricio in the area and the referee Thomas Balvay did not signal anything, prompting a field invasion. The match was suspended for 20 minutes until the Irundarras decided to return to the field. However, they forgot to bring their heads with them and Barcelona took the opportunity to score two goals in the final minutes, through Clemente Gràcia and Alcántara, leaving the final score at 5–1.

Match details

Report2 Samitier Alcántara Gràcia

Aftermath

The incidents of that game led to the suspension of Patricio for one year and a fine of 500 pesetas for Real Unión, which at the time was a heavy fine. The one-year suspension effectively led to the retirement of Patricio, who was almost 30 years old and had been playing football since he was 17.

References

References

1. (13 January 2000). "Spain - Cup 1922". [[RSSSF]].
2. "Copa del Rey Alfonso 1922".
3. (16 May 1922). "El F.C. Barcelona campeón de España". [[El Progreso (xornal).
4. (16 May 1922). "Partido final del Campeonato de España". El Ideal Gallego.
5. "Patricio Arabolaza". Olympics.