Valencia ease past Zaragoza

Valencia recorded only their second victory of the new Primera Division season after easing past Real Zaragoza 2-0.

Valencia recorded only their second victory of the new Primera Division season after easing past Real Zaragoza 2-0 at the Mestalla. Sofiane Feghouli opened the scoring for Los Che in the 12th minute and Jonathan Viera doubled the advantage just before the hour mark. The dismissal of Feghouli moments later meant Valencia were left facing a nervy final half-hour, but Mauricio Pellegrino's men held on for a much-needed victory following their disappointing start to the campaign. Los Che, who had finished third in each of the last three campaigns, had earned just five points from a possible 15 and were already 10 adrift of leaders Barcelona heading into Saturday's match. However, Feghouli's early goal settled some nerves as the Algeria international slotted in at the second attempt after his initial effort had been blocked by Zaragoza defender Alvaro Gonzalez. Zaragoza, who beat Osasuna 3-1 last time out to double their tally of points for the season, tried to claw their way back and Valencia were indebted to their goalkeeper Vicente Guaita for keeping them ahead with fine saves from Paco Montanes and Jose Mari just prior to half-time. Valencia were perhaps lucky to be in front at the break and that good fortune continued at the start of the second half when Zaragoza midfielder Victor Rodriguez smashed a shot against the crossbar. It was Zaragoza's turn to ride their luck in the 54th minute when Valencia striker Jonas also hit the woodwork following a great pass from Tino Costa. Valencia did not have to wait much longer to increase their lead though, as Viera slotted in at the far post after Jonas' effort at the near post was deflected across goal. At 2-0, Valencia must have been confident the points were theirs, but Feghouli's second yellow card for a foul two minutes after Viera's goal gave Zaragoza a lifeline. However, the visitors could not make the most of their man advantage and in the end Valencia might have claimed a bigger win after creating some decent openings in the closing stages.