Getafe frustrate Neville's home debut in Liga BBVA

Exciting first half

Getafe came into the game without a road win in the Liga BBVA in 11 outings but twice took the lead only to be pegged back both times in a free-flowing first period. Their performance was all the more impressive as Valencia had only conceded three times in their seven home games so far this season.

Getafe dominate

Getafe midfielder Pablo Sarabia opened the scoring with his fourth goal this season, curling a freekick over the wall after 10 minutes. It was Getafe's 500th goal in Liga BBVA.

¡Enhorabuena @Pablosarabia92 por el gol 500 del Getafe en Liga! ;) https://t.co/y5b0RRUsYM

— Getafe C.F. (@GetafeCF) December 19, 2015

 

Alcacer stunner 

It didn’t take long for the home side to react. Joao Cancelo crossed from the right and Spain striker Paco Alcacer volleyed a stunning shot inside the near post in the 15th minute. Valencia had looked nervous and it was a mistake in the home defence that allowed Getafe to retake the lead, Angel Lafita drilling a shot into the roof of the net.

First touch 

Alcacer turned provider in the 36th minute with a low cross to the far post and Santi Mina, who had just come on for the injured Jose Luis Gaya, scored with his first touch of the ball. A great reflex save from Getafe's Vicente Guaita left it level at the break.

HALF-TIME | Half-time at Mestalla, what an exciting game! Come on Valencia!!-> https://t.co/0wsB7fJ9Fw #VCFgetafe pic.twitter.com/dqJzAYRwra

— Valencia CF English (@valenciacf_en) December 19, 2015

Second half parity

In the second period both sides had chances to win the game. Valencia were foiled by an inspired Guaita and in a rollercoaster finale, Lafita missed a sitter when he swung his foot and missed the ball from six yards out, and in added time he struck the crossbar.

Fortress Mestalla 

Valencia finished 2015 undefeated at home in the Liga BBVA.

Valencia coach Gary Neville said:

"The players have given their all but we need to be more alert to counter-attacks."

Getafe coach Fran Escriba said:

"I leave here pleased, although we could have won."