Levante vs Almeria Preview: Piatti prays to end suffering

Posted Sunday, February 13, 2011 by PA

Almeria forward Pablo Piatti admits it would be a huge boost for morale if his side can escape the relegation zone this weekend when they take on fellow strugglers Levante.

Almeria have been stuck in the bottom three since the middle of November but, after winning two of their last three matches, they could move into safer waters if they can see off Levante.

Almeria are currently in 19th spot on 20 points, one behind 18th-placed Levante and two behind the five teams immediately above the drop zone.

Piatti said in AS: "If we get the victory we would surely climb several places in the table and we would no longer be in the relegation zone, which is the prize we are looking for.

"Morale-wise it would be spectacular for the team because it would mean leaving behind a lot of suffering and we would see things in a different light, although also knowing that a couple of bad results would put us back in trouble."

The Argentinian added about the game: "If we win we aren't safe and if we lose we aren't down, but we need to be realistic, it's a match where we're playing for a lot."

Like Almeria, Levante are also looking a side on the up after winning their last two league matches - having previously lost five in succession.

Getafe were the first victims, with Levante claiming a 2-0 win at home, and then last week Luis Garcia's men caused one of the upsets of the season as they became the first team to beat Villarreal at El Madrigal this campaign.

Defender Nano said: "If we continue along those lines, we will secure our objective of survival.

"Almeria are a direct rival and we have to win that match."

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