Champions League
Parrott ignites late winner as Betis snatch Valencia triumph
In the 83rd minute, Real Betis broke the deadlock at the Mestalla, with Troy Parrott playing a key role in the counter‑attack that saw Pablo Garcia finish, securing a 1‑0 La Liga win for Betis at Valencia on Tuesday night.
The 24‑year‑old Republic of Ireland striker joined the Seville club from AZ Alkmaar last week. Manager Manuel Pellegrini brought him on from the bench in the 71st minute of the tight contest at the Mestalla.
Parrott's early chance falls short
Parrott immediately tested the hosts, beating Valencia’s off‑side trap to race toward goal before curling an angled effort just past the post. The chance, however, did not change the scoreline.
In the 83rd minute Betis finally broke the deadlock, with Parrott’s strength and awareness sparking a swift counter‑attack. Pablo Garcia completed the move, slotting home the decisive goal.
Valencia pressed furiously for an equaliser, but Betis held firm to preserve their perfect start to the campaign. The visitors’ defence weathered the onslaught and kept the clean sheet.
The victory follows Betis’ opening‑day 1‑0 home win over Real Sociedad last Friday, extending their unbeaten run to two matches.
Before the game, Pellegrini praised the newcomer, saying, "He is a player who has an important challenge in front of him, to make a leap in his career," he said. He added, "He has many attributes to do it. He is not only a number nine. I hope he is an important reinforcement because there are many games to play." He continued, "He's a good goalscorer, he knows how to find space and is a good player. He has that instinct for the ball and I think he’s going to do well."