Almería are looking good for a return to the top flight after a 0-1 victory at Girona in the first leg of their play-off final. The locals have never played in the first division, but they got off to an enthusiastic start, Jofre and Bordas bringing good saves out of Esteban. Luso had to clear an effort by Soriano off the line at the other end however, and although Juanlu and Bordas went close at the start of the second half, Charles combined with Corona on a quick breakaway to put the visitors ahead, the Brazilian striker's thirtieth of the season. The Catalans had a chance to equalise when Gunino cut out a Felipe Sanchón cross with his arm in the area a quarter of an hour from the end, but Esteban guessed correctly and saved Sanchón's spot kick. And although both keepers had work to do after that, the scoreline remained unmoved. The two teams resume battle on Saturday evening, but Javi Gracia's side must now be strong favourites to go up. (19.06.13)