San Mamés turns jeers into unwavering support for Athletic | OneFootball

San Mamés changed the script on a tense night for Athletic, the crowd swapping whistles for unwavering backing against Osasuna. According to El Correo, the unity appeal from dressing room, staff and board found a full-throated answer.

The backdrop was stark, Athletic urgently needed a win to ease the threat of relegation. The Villarreal game had brought boos at half-time and in other spells, and Iñaki Williams was jeered when substituted.

The club cut ticket prices to 30 euros to lift attendance after a season-low 42,981 against Villarreal, well below this season’s 47,000 average. This time 47,500 turned up, including about 1,000 visiting supporters who were largely drowned out.

Sixteen large flags greeted the teams and the songs started early. Athletic produced a good first half and there was no disapproval. The only flashpoint came on 25 minutes when the singing section chanted “Uriarte kanpora”, which many elsewhere countered with whistles.

Jon Uriarte heard it from the directors’ box, returning there a day after being confirmed as president until 2030. Next to him sat Osasuna counterpart Luis Sabalza. There was no official lunch amid tension after Athletic signed Osasuna cadet Sergio Nuin, Azpilicueta’s nephew.

Players felt the stands understood their influence. Laporte and Berchiche received thunderous applause as they went off with knocks, a contrast to the previous reaction to changes. Unai Simón said their grit helped reconnect with the crowd and noted his first clean sheet in four and a half months, while Ernesto Valverde admitted he suffered and praised how everyone was focused on three points.

Source: El Correo