Cup triumph salvages Valencia's season

Valencia CF rescued a disappointing season by claiming their seventh Copa del Rey following a 3-1 final win over last year's runners-up Getafe CF.

Early lead
Ronald Koeman's side, who are only five points clear of the Primera División relegation zone after three successive league defeats, went 2-0 up within 12 minutes thanks to goals from midfielder Juan M. Mata and centre-back Alexis. Getafe, who lost to Sevilla FC in last season's final, were thrown a lifeline when Esteban Granero scored from the spot on the stroke of half-time.

UEFA Cup spot
The goal gave Michael Laudrup's team a new lease of life and they put their opponents under severe pressure in the second half but it was Valencia who struck again, substitute Fernando Morientes heading in with seven minutes left to secure the Spanish Cup and a berth in next season's UEFA Cup. The night ended on a low note for Getafe when midfielder Fabio Celestini was sent off just before the final whistle.