Las Palmas managed to salvage a point against Valladolid, and the team is grateful for it. According to coach Diego Martínez, the expulsion of McKenna was a turning point in the game, effectively dividing it into two distinct halves – one before the red card and one after. Martínez believes this point could prove crucial as the season nears its end.
The match started well for Las Palmas, with the team displaying impressive concentration and control. They scored a goal and even had a potential penalty opportunity that might have swung the game in their favor. However, the expulsion forced them to readjust their strategy, allowing Valladolid to mount a stronger attack with extra players. Matters worsened when Mika Marble suffered an injury, leading to a forced substitution at halftime.
Reflecting on the turning point, Martínez noted, “There are two games: one before the expulsion and one after the red card. We played the game we intended to at the start – focused and controlled, scoring a goal and earning a potential penalty. However, the second part was full of challenges.” He also highlighted that the injury to Mika Marble and subsequent halftime changes added to the difficulties they faced.
Despite these setbacks, Las Palmas managed to secure a point. Martínez remarked, “We finished with a point because Viti was unable to continue, and we had to make several changes. Even with so many setbacks, the team controlled the game and grabbed the point. This draw could be very important at the end of the season.”
The coach also praised Fábio Silva’s performance, who played more minutes than advised by doctors. Martínez admitted that keeping Silva in the game was a risk, but it was necessary given the circumstances.
Regarding the error that led to the expulsion, Martínez described it as “very avoidable” and noted that such mistakes are common among young players. He emphasized the importance of learning from these errors and moving forward.
In conclusion, Martínez expressed his trust in his team, saying, “I believe in this team, and I know we are going to succeed. When I arrived in October, we were fighting hard, and now with 24 points in the mix, we continue to trust our approach.” Despite the challenges, Las Palmas remains optimistic about their chances, and this hard-earned point against Valladolid could prove significant as the season unfolds.