Floods in Spain: in the presence of the penya of Valencia, the USAP pays tribute to the victims and those affected before the match against Vannes

“How beautiful it is for an entity like the USAP to think of those who suffered the full brunt of this catastrophe in Valencia.” This phone call from President François Rivière “in person” this Friday, then these exchanges with the general director Bruno Rolland, inviting him to join Perpignan, before the match against Vannes, to pay tribute to the Valencian people affected in their flesh by deadly floods, “I didn't expect that. We're nobody after all.” And yet so otherwise important in the blood and gold community. Because it has been fourteen years since Jordi Mata co-founded the Els Valencians penya, of which he is still president today.

“I had to work todaysays this professional docker. I asked my boss to be able to be released to come to northern Catalonia and be the spokesperson for those who are suffering. Because it is a pride to see northern Catalonia supporting us. Northern Catalonia is our country. We all share a territory, a language, a culture. And this day, a pain.” “I immediately offered to accompany himcontinues his friend Santi Almenar, secretary of the penya. We took my van and left yesterday (Friday, Editor's note) in the evening. We traveled 550 kilometers for a few hours here. We would do anything for the USAP.” Who, for this incandescent fervor despite a great misfortune, had to return the favor. To be up to the task.

To this end, Jordi and Santi were invited to follow the match from the stands with President François Rivière and other officials. Just before, they took part in the guard of honor upon the arrival of the players at the stadium, visited the new infrastructures, then joined the Aimé-Giral pitch during the fictitious kick-off where in front of them, more than 14 000 people applauded their courage and resilience. I fer pinya.