Almeria coach Gaizka Garitano praised his players after Monday's 2-2 draw with Sevilla.

The result keeps Almeria's survival hopes alive.

Garitano said: "The team played a good game. We have to take into account the rival we had in front of us and during many stretches of the game we played very good football. It was an open game. We went to press in the first half and we stole, but they also had space with the fast people they have up front.

"We had controlled the second half well. It's a shame because the game was dead just when they scored the first goal. It's a shame that we gave it that facility in the first goal.

"If we have not achieved the first victory it is because we have not done things well or that the opposing teams are better than us. But we are going through the competition with our heads held high to compete in every game. The team is in every game.

"This team has recently won the Europa League and today Almería has not been less than Sevilla at any time. We have to continue working, be professional, defend the shield and the city we are defending and compete as we have done today. Look for that first victory that gives us that turning point to continue. The team is alive and competing in the Primera Division against all rivals."