Almeria vs Real Betis preview - Rodriguez remains upbeat
Posted Saturday, May 03, 2014 by PA
Almeria coach Francisco Rodriguez is confident his side can still avoid relegation.
Los Rojiblancos kept their hopes of preserving Primera Division status alive by ending a five-match losing streak with a 2-1 win over Espanyol last time out.
They are two points adrift of safety with three games remaining and Rodriguez is hopeful as already-relegated Real Betis visit the Mediterraneo Stadium this weekend.
He said: "I'm optimistic with to our last three league games. My players are showing a lot of hunger and determination.
"The win at Espanyol was crucial for us and now we face a must-win game against Betis."
Almeria must address their poor home form, having won just one of their last six on their own turf.
But their opponents this weekend have won just twice on their travels this term and are now just playing for pride after relegation was confirmed last week.
The bottom side were beaten 1-0 by Real Sociedad - their fifth consecutive loss - and will be playing in Liga Adelante next term.
Midfielder Xavi Torres said: "The only thing our president (Manuel Dominguez Platas) has asked of us is professionalism.
"He has asked us to win the three games that remain and to try to avoid being the worst Betis in the club's history.
"He has also said that those who don't want to represent the team should step aside."
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