Simone Zaza proved the matchwinner as Valencia defeated Las Palmas on Friday night.

Zaza hit the only goal of the game as they came out on top 1-0 against ten-man Las Palmas in their opening match of the LaLiga season.

The blanquinegros have had a turbulent few seasons under a succession of coaches but their latest incumbent Marcelino made a winning start in his first LaLiga match although he was helped by the dismissal of Alen Halilovic after 34 minutes for a studs up challenge.

Zaza had already given Valencia the lead on the 22nd minute with a left foot finish after he had been found by an impressive Carlos Soler from the left-hand side.

Up until then Valencia had shown more control but Las Palmas carried a threat on the break especially through the feet of Jonathan Viera.