UEFA cup, semi final first leg

Villarreal 0 - Valencia 0

A disappointing 0-0 draw between Spanish neighbours Villarreal and Valencia in their UEFA cup semi-final, with nether side really setting things alight in what should have been the game of the century for the local community. With so much at stake both sides put out full strength line ups, but nerves were clearly on display in the opening minutes. The only real chance in the first half came early on when Reina saved from Vicente at point blank range, although Anderson could have put the locals ahead had he been quicker on to Roger's cross. It was more of the same after the break, with Baraja almost putting the visitors ahead when he headed against the bar from Vicente's corner and Albelda striking another shot just over the top. But in the end no goals from anyone, which must favour Rafa Benítez's side in the return leg in a fortnight's time. (22.04.04)