In the aftermath of Reak Betis’ recent 2-1 victory over Getafe, goalie David Soria expressed his disapproval of the Sevillian team’s alleged use of time-wasting tactics.  “I imagine Pellegrini isn’t happy with how his team played,” Soria asserted.  In reality, only three of the six or eight extra minutes were used.  He ought to set a good example.  This type of conduct damages our reputation while leaving others unharmed.

By implying that Betis had deviated from Pellegrini’s declared footballing philosophy, Soria intensified his criticism of the Chilean coach.  “Betis has behaved in a way that goes against what their coach says, which is that he loves the game and doesn’t waste time.  They really irritate us every time we play against them,” the Getafe goalie continued.

Pellegrini defended his squad’s performance in a post-match study, saying the Andalusian team deserved the victory.  “I think we played better in the game.  We had multiple good chances, hit the post, and scored two goals.  Adrián, our goalie, had no important saves to make before to the goal.  Both teams played a fiercely contested game,” the Santiago native said.

In addition, Pellegrini made fun of Getafe’s propensity to slow down the game.  “Even Getafe, who frequently interrupted games, was a football player.  Without wasting time, we proceeded as normal.  Neither side used time-wasting strategies.  “We were better and played with intensity,” he said.

Regarding Soria’s charges, Pellegrini restated his disapproval of the goalie’s opinions, claiming that they were not indicative of the game’s actual circumstances.  “Teams in the lead frequently take their time in the final minutes.  That does not, however, entail dramatically staying down or mimicking injuries.  Pellegrini clarified, “I haven’t heard Soria’s statements, but I don’t think they fit with what happened during the game.”