Neville’s men to play for pride

Madrid, Feb. 9: Facing the virtually- impossible mission of reversing a sevengoal deficit against Barcelona in the second leg of the Copa del Rey semi- finals, coach Gary Neville hopes a decent result against the Spanish giants will help start turning things around for Valencia.

In addition to restoring some dignity, a home win against red- hot Barcelona on Wednesday could help steer the team back in the right direction after a dismal run under Neville’s command.

A victory at Mestalla Stadium would also put Valencia in the history books as the team who kept Barcelona from breaking their club record of 28 games without a loss.

Although no one denies there is little chance of overturning the humiliating 7- 0 first- leg loss, the return match means Valencia can regain some confidence and prove they are better than recent results have been showing.

“We obviously put ourselves in a ridiculous position in that match,” Neville said. “It was unacceptable. But what I can see is that last Wednesday was a massive accident. That was a freak match.”

In his first head- coaching job, Neville is under increased pressure because of a series of poor results. The team haven’t won in nine Spanish League games since he took over less than two months ago.

“The reality is, if you don’t get the results to go with improvement in performances, then you lose some strength in your words,” the former Manchester United and England defender said.

“I see a difference ( in the team) in the last three weeks but no difference in results and that is the thing that really is annoying, frustrating and disappointing for everybody at the club.”

Valencia are currently in 14th place in the Spanish league with five victories in 23 games.

We obviously put ourselves in a ridiculous position in that match. It was unacceptable. Last Wednesday was a massive accident. That was a freak match.

GARY NEVILLE — Valencia coach on

their 0- 7 deficit against Barca in

Copa del Rey