Athletic paid for a poor first half, although in the second half a great Jauregizar goal and two clear chances for Paredes and Berenguer almost earned the Lions all three points
Athletic Club drew 1-1 at San Mamés against Girona FC. The Lions paid for a poor first half, in which Míchel's team took the lead, but with a revolution of changes at half-time, they reacted well and had chances to win.
Mikel Jauregizar led the comeback attempt with and a great goal, but Paolo Gazzaniga, a well-known nemesis, kept the scores level with two great saves to deny Aitor Paredes and Alex Berenguer.
It was a rainy evening, which began with emotional One Club Award tributes to Jamie Carragher (Liverpool FC) and Joelle Murray (Hibernian FC) for their total dedication to their clubs.
The Lions were hesitant from the off and it gave Girona a boost. First Vladyslav Vanat went close and then a minute later Azzedine Ounahi, who was in fine form, scored with well-placed shot.
The Lions' only chances were a couple of miscued Oihan Sancet efforts. Not long after, Donny Van de Beek went off injured and his replacement, Portu, almost doubled the visitors' lead.
Ernesto Valverde made four changes at half-time as he looked to turn things around. Jauregizar gave San Mames a massive lift when he stole possession and fired in a screamer from distance in the 48th minute.
Girona weathered the storm. But Athletic, building from the back through Paredes and Aymeric Laporte, making his second debut, threatened with a Gorka Guruzeta chance.
Then Gazzaniga appeared to keep Míchel's men in the game. His save from Paredes' header was superb and he then managed to thwart Berenguer in a one-v-one.
Robert Navarro came on and had two chances to score late on, but it wasn't to be.
Now it's time to gather strength and head to Villarreal FC with renewed energy. Ten points in the bag and we move on.
