Corberán: “Faced with difficulty, the team showed the heart, personality, and resilience to secure a point”

Valencia CF coach, Carlos Corberán, spoke to the media in the post-match press conference following the 1-1 draw against RCD Mallorca.

The possible penalty not awarded

These situations leave you confused; the criteria are inconsistent. Sometimes they're interpreted as penalties, and other times not. The same situations are called in some matches and not in others. We're disappointed that it wasn't reviewed and that there isn't a clearer criterion. He didn't say anything; I understand he'll interpret it as an incident after the ball had gone. That is something open to interpretation and subjective.

Speaking with Gayà after the penalty appeal 

This year we've had decisions where we've suffered penalties given against us that, upon review, weren't penalties, and penalty appeals in our favour that weren't given when they should have been. Gayà says it was a foul, that there was contact. There's nothing we can do but accept it. We're hurt. It's the last move of the game. There's nothing left to do but accept the referee's decision, which wasn't what it should have been.

The team’s performance 

Consistency is key. We need to maintain our better spells throughout the game. At the beginning of the match, we didn't have the balls upfield to allow us to extend our attacks. Titi's injury left us without shape in his position. Then we had a period with better pressure and greater control. RCD Mallorca found a way to overcome our press; it was difficult for us, and in their half, they had the ability to sustain attacks. Without creating many clear chances, they took the game to our end of the pitch. Our start to the second half wasn't good. In a difficult situation, without a natural centre back on the pitch, without a natural right-back, the team showed the heart, personality, and resilience to get a point. By better understanding this and thanks to the contributions of the substitutions, which all worked very well and made a big difference, we've managed to improve. The key is to continue being a team, a family that overcome difficult times. We're happy because the team didn't lose heart during the match; they played with passion. The next match at Mestalla will be crucial to making this point count.

Renzo Saravia's debut

It's not an easy situation to manage because he's been inactive, because he hasn't had matches to get back into the rhythm of things… His growth in the last 15 days has been evident; he's taken a step forward. This week he's been at his best. He looked physically and emotionally ready to help, and when he was needed, he stepped up, and we're happy about that. We need the best from everyone to help the team.

The team second most disadvantaged by refereeing decisions

We have to believe in the referees' ability because their level is good. Certain situations need to be handled more objectively, left less open to interpretation, and the consequences of actions need to be clearer. Confusion only generates frustration. It's a shame to be the second most disadvantaged team in these situations. There's nothing left to do but accept it, persevere, give our best as a team, and go to Mestalla to try and get three important points next time.

Muriqi not having any dangerous opportunities

It's all about Pepelu's personality, the team's defensive work, and Pepelu's bravery. I asked Tárrega and Pepelu to switch sides when Virgili came on, but they refused because they felt confident, winning their duels, and I like that kind of personality, facing difficulties with confidence and character. That's what gets you to the top and allows you to progress. I'm very satisfied with Pepelu's performance.

Thierry Correia’s injury

It’s a problem with his adductor. He had doubts, but he tried to play on; he tried to continue, but he couldn't, and we won't know the extent of the injury for a few hours.