Valencia secured a 2-1 win over Sevilla on Sunday in an entertaining clash at the Mestalla, as they needed an injury-time goal to seal all three points with Alvaro Negredo emerging as his side’s hero.
Watch more brilliant snippets like this with fanatix’s FREE sports video news app.
The Spanish striker reacted quickest as the ball dropped to his feet following a late Valencia free kick, as he sparked wild scenes of celebrations in an important clash for the hosts.
It appeared as though Pako Ayestaran’s side had thrown away two points when Kevin Gameiro struck with an equaliser in the closing stages of the encounter.
His goal came after Dani Parejo had given Valencia the lead shortly before the half-time interval with a deflected free kick, as the hosts dominated in the opening period and should have been out of sight.
However, they were unable to make the most of their possession and chances early on, but fortunately for them, Negredo stepped up and delivered a decisive contribution after coming off the bench to seal the three points.
The win moves Valencia up to 11th place in the La Liga table, as they now boast a nine-point gap between themselves and the relegation zone with six games remaining this season.
While they will hope to now take confidence from the win and finish the campaign in strong fashion, it was evident that there has been an improvement in their overall play and belief since Gary Neville was sacked.