Mel wary of Getafe threat

Posted Monday, November 05, 2012 by PA

Coach Pepe Mel has warned his in-form Real Betis side that they face a tough test from Getafe.

Betis lie fifth in the Primera Division, in a Europa League qualifying spot at this relatively early stage of the season, having responded to their 4-0 thumping at Malaga by taking seven points in three games.

But Mel is wary of the ninth-placed visitors, who have won three of their last four league games and would move level on points with Betis with another victory.

"Getafe have speed with Leon Castro and Barrada and then at the back, they have a compact block," Mel told realbetisbalompie.es.

"Their aim is not survival, they are looking higher up the table, and that makes them tough opponents."

Betis will welcome back key midfielder Benat from injury, leaving defender Mario as their only absentee.

"(Benat) is 100 per cent recovered from the problem that prevented him from playing against Valencia," said Mel.

"Now we hope he returns to his top level. He needs it and we need it.

"Mario is missing but the others have trained with no problems."

Getafe coach Luis Garcia, whose side kept their good form going with a 4-0 win against Ponferradina in the Copa del Rey in midweek, is refusing to get carried away by recent results.

"You have to go game by game and remain humble," he told Marca.

"We are on a good run, four wins in five games, but if you lose two games you get down.

"Betis are a compact side, they playing close together and have a direct style.

"That's not a criticism, they have a good set-up and a great coach."

Alexis is poised to retain his place after impressing against Ponferradina, replacing David Abraham in defence from the team which beat Athletic Bilbao in their last league outing.