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Valencia coach Baraja: Worst first-half of season; Almeida changed everything

Valencia coach Ruben Baraja admits they were poor for victory at Granada.

Andre Almeida struck for the 1-0 win for visiting Valencia.

Baraja later said: "It is a great victory in terms of the result, because we have not played our best game. But we have had that luck factor that we have been lacking lately. With the effort of the boys it has been achieved. But I think it was the worst first half of the season, we lacked energy, conviction... but after the break the team took a step forward, we conceded fewer chances and we had our chances to win.

"We had that bit of luck and work has a lot of value and the result, more.

"I was angry at half-time, because after 30 games we had always been a recognisable team. But here we were not being faithful to what has brought us here. This team had expectations at the beginning that they have changed and that cannot be changed. In the second half we were more recognisable. The changes have given us extra push and finish, and the possibility of scoring a goal.

"You have to be happy with the victory, but in the first half I was very angry."

On Almeida's goal, he added: "Yes. He started playing at a good level and then he had a four-month injury. It has been difficult for him to have continuity. He has come in very well. He has united our lines and generated football for us. I am very happy.

"He is a player who has different things and can make a difference for us. The goal is a cherry on top of his work. For me he is the one who changed the game."

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