Losing to Madrid Always Hurts …

By: Cesar | April 22nd, 2007

Well, this match hurt …

I went to work in the morning but complained of an ‘upset stomach’ so I could get out and watch this one.
I enjoyed a few adult beverages with my friends, consisting of a Valencia fan, some Real Madrid fans, a Valenciana who supports Los Merengues (sacrilegious, I know. But we forgive her) and an Atletico Madrid fan.

I watched for some energy, a spark of creativity or a piece of genius. For stretches, Valencia looked aggressive, in command. But too often, they fail when it counts.
Look, maybe this team isn’t as good as we thought. Maybe the management is as shaky as advertised, maybe the players are tired or maybe the injuries have caught up to them.

I just can’t help but wonder what this team could have been with a.) a competent manager and b.) no injuries.
In a season this wide open in Spain (we’re only 6 points behind after Barcelona’s 2-0 thrashing at the hands of first-cousins Villarreal), Valencia should be runaway champions. Can someone please explain to me why we’re fighting tooth-and-nail for a Champions League spot with the talent we have??

Some random thoughts:
- Where was the defense on the Van Nistelrooy goal? Nice goal taken by the equine-faced one.
- What a great flick for a goal by Moro. He didn’t play a great game but the goal was magnificent. And yes, what a dazzling cross by Joaquin, who looks better and better to me every week. Too bad he had to be taken out with a groin injury. Is it serious?
- Miguel played a dazzler. He’s the modern-day Roberto Carlos, only better.
- What was up with the camera angle on television? You could barely see the players run in the first half. It was like we were sitting in the top row of the Bernabeu, without binoculars. Hey, I know I’m watching the game in New York, but come ON!
- You have to give it to Madrid. They played well, even though I believe we dominated in stretches and let them off the hook. Robinho is just tricks and nothing else, right? Lots of hype but he’s turning into the next Denilson. Great pass by Beckham (Mr. USA) for the goal. He’ll do well here, but I doubt the average American fan will understand WHY he’s good … more on that another time.
- The team’s decimated by injuries, but the tactics leave one to wonder. Why was Viana left out of the starting line-up? Why was he brought into the match in the 80th minute, when the team needed a creative spark way before that? Why Jorge Lopez, who last played in 1998 (right?) come on instead of Viana? Why can’t the team ever dominate for a full 90? Why is there no wind in Valencia for the America’s Cup? Is that Quique’s fault too?? WHY??? (I am frustrated.)
- Also, why such woeful defending on the free kick by Becks? “Small details like not defending well against free-kicks can prove to be decisive,” Quique said. You think?
“I am bitter because the game was under control and we lost because of one small detail. The result does not reflect the way we played.” Truer words were never spoken by the Valencia boss.
- And please, let’s end all the talk of Bernd Shuster. Yes, I know I’m guilty of it too. But people, look what he did with Levante a few years ago. He’s not the second coming of Benitez, ok? Let’s think of someone like Valverde, who does so much with so little at Espanyol.
- I think I think any believeable shot at the title is over. I THINK. Because look here … Barcelona lost again today … so where does that leave us? 6 points behind with 7 to play. We’re in 5th place, tied with 4th-placed Zaragoza, who we see in a few weeks. Honestly, let’s just get into the Champions League and debunk any talk of a championship. Story. Over.
- At least Marchena is back for the next game. He’s been the revelation of the season, in my opinion. I also believe Gavilan might be available? I like this kid.
- Quick transfer news: 18-year old Stephen ‘Sunny’ Sunday has signed with us from Poli Ejido. The Nigerian-born midfielder is a naturalized Spanish citizen. He’s quick-footed, agile and a great passer who attracted interest from teams like Real Madrid and Barcelona. Good signing for the future.
Also, looks like our president Juan Soler’s come to an agreement with Osasuna over midfielder Raul Garcia. It’s form 12 million euro. Now it’s up to Mr. Garcia, who is weighing his option to come to Valencia or Atletico Madrid.
Here, please??

So on we go. Let’s rally behind our boys now, because they need the support. Seven very important games to go. A place in Europe will be our only indication of success this season. We *have* to get that spot. Let’s hope for the best … AMUNT SEMPRE!!!