Gary Neville's miserable run in charge of Valencia continued as a second half goal by former Manchester United team-mate Giuseppe Rossi condemned his side to a 1-0 defeat at local rivals Levante.

The Italy international pounced on slack defending by the visitors from a throw in to volley into the far corner midway through the second half to give struggling Levante a deserved lead, although they remain bottom of the Primera Division in spite of the win.

Valencia meanwhile suffered a third consecutive defeat in all competitions and missed out on the chance to move into the top half of the table.

Save for a couple of chances that fell to Sofiane Fegouli, Valencia were overpowered by the hosts for most of the game, and Rossi came close to giving Levante the lead in the first half, but hit the post.

Valencia midfielder Dani Parejo was also fortunate not to pick up a second yellow card before the break, committing a late tackle while already cautioned.

Levante’s best spell came towards the end of the first half, missing three chances in quick succession.

Defender Zouhair Feddal had a header tipped away by Valencia goalkeeper Diego Alves, who also saved from striker Deyverson, who then headed over the bar in the same move.

Valencia offered little at the other end and then failed to track the run of Rossi, who met Juanfran’s throw in first time to break the deadlock and heap more pressure on Neville.