DEPORTIVO

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"Deportivo La Coruna forward Juan Carlos Valeron believes the club is entering a crucial phase of the season as the Galicians travel to Andalusia to play Real Betis.

Javier Irureta's in-form team have not lost in six matches and are steadying the ship after a poor start to the campaign.

A demonstration of their potential was the impressive victory away in the Mestalla stadium against defending champions and UEFA Cup holders Valencia last week.

Depor, though, are still six points adrift of a UEFA Cup place and face a tough test against Betis on Sunday and again the following week when they take on Real Madrid.

"These are going to be very important games and we will have to approach them in the right way as they can make a big difference to where we end up," said Spanish international Valeron.

"We are looking now to introduce more consistency to the team so that we will be able to pick up consecutive wins.

"Now we are in a higher position in the league and in the right place so that if we can win the key games ahead of us this season, then we can reach the European places."

However, Valeron is worried about the ability of Betis to score on the break as he anticipates a tough encounter. Irureta is set to be without keeper Jose Molina due to a back strain and Hector Berenguer, who has a knee injury.

However Fran Gonzalez, Mauro Silva and Cesar Martin have all returned to training this week and are fit to face Betis.

Irureta insists that the victory at the Mestalla has improved the spirits of the players. Betis played out an eight-goal thriller last week against Athletic Bilbao in the San Mames stadium but having conceded four goals they will welcome the return of both Juan Melli and Diego Rivas from suspension to steady the defence.

The Andalusians have European ambitions of their own and currently occupy fifth position - which would ensure UEFA Cup football next season.

Three points would not only keep Deportivo at bay but also keep Betis in the hunt for a Champions League berth. Betis have an excellent scoring record at home, averaging 10 goals in their last four home games, which they have won. The return of Melli and Rivas should steady the defence, and I think they are an excellent bet today. Betis have won eight games at home and only lost once, and I think evens represents some good value. Get On!

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