Cristiano Torres cuts an ear and delivers the highlight of the night

The fourth novillada of the season ticket series, and the first evening fixture of the campaign, had Cristiano Torres as its standout performer. The Zaragoza-born novillero made the most of the best youngster from Fermín Bohórquez’s entry to secure the only ear of the night, while Uceda Vargas and El Mene left empty-handed despite moments of promise.

Uceda Vargas opened the event with a high-risk portagayola reception, showing variety with the cape. He found rhythm on the left-hand side against a noble but limited opponent, producing his cleanest sequences there before finishing with an effective sword thrust that earned warm applause. The fourth followed a similar pattern: determined attitude and interesting passages against a bull that eventually headed for the boards, preventing the performance from fully taking off despite his effort.

Cristiano Torres made his intentions clear from the start with his first, a hesitant animal that required patience and careful placement. The Aragonese novillero stayed committed throughout and, after a meritorious effort in which he was dramatically knocked over but escaped injury, completed a lap of honour following a strong petition. His big moment arrived with the fifth, the most complete youngster of the night. Torres welcomed it with composed verónicas and began the muleta work on his knees, quickly engaging the crowd. The faena built in intensity, ending with close-range passes and bernardinas that lifted the atmosphere before a decisive sword thrust secured the ear.

El Mene showed stylish details with the cape against his first, although the youngster proved reserved and faded quickly. He searched for variety in the closing stages with decorative passes, but the effort was met with silence. With the sixth he again displayed willingness against a mobile opponent. The faena carried rhythm, and members of his cuadrilla received an ovation after a notable banderillas tercio. A high-quality final sword thrust sparked a petition that fell short, leaving him acknowledged with applause.

The night, defined by the uneven performance of the young bulls, ended with Cristiano Torres as the clear winner thanks to his determination and ability to capitalise on the best opportunity of the evening