Valencia Coach Voro believes his side tried their best during their 3-0 defeat at Atletico Madrid, but their opponents were simply stronger.
Antoine Griezmann netted a brace and Kevin Gameiro also got on the scoresheet as Los Rojiblancos leapt back into fourth position while Los Che left empty-handed.
"The team tried and competed, but our rivals were simply better than us," the Valencia boss told reporters after the game.
"I don't believe the headlines should read that we didn't compete.
"Atletico gave us space and the ball, but they were well placed in front of us and we were not able to cause them damage.
"The team has improved over the past two months but, logically, they have come from where they have come and it would be brilliant to win every game.
"But the reality is what it is. On Saturday, we have an important match against Sporting Gijon and we will give it our all."
