Soccer-Barca's draw with Werder felt more like a win says Valdes

MADRID, Sep 28 (Reuters) Barcelona felt relief after rescuing a point with a 1-1 draw against Werder Bremen in the Champions League yesterday.

The European Champions were on the brink of defeat after Carles Puyol put the ball in his own net in the 56th minute but a fine goal from substitute Lionel Messi ensured parity a minute from time.

''In the end the draw is extremely valuable. It feels more like a win,'' Barca goalkeeper Victor Valdes said after the game.

''It was a really tough game but they had hardly had a shot on goal when Puyol accidentally put them in front.

''We struggled to control the game early on but were still able to create chances.'' Portugal midfielder Deco said it was Werder's tactics that had made life difficult for his side.

''They had a player more in midfield which made it a lot harder for us, even though we were prepared for this type of game,'' said Deco.

''The arrival of Messi gave us a bit more spark. Considering everything, a point from the game was a good result.'' The side's biggest concern was losing Cameroon striker Samuel Eto'o in the 63rd minute, who damaged his right knee and could be out for two to three months.

Argentine forward Messi said: ''Samuel was pleased with the result we achieved. We hope his injury isn't serious because he is a very important player for us.'' The draw dropped Barcelona to second in Group A with four points, two adrift of leaders Chelsea. Werder are third with one and Levski Sofia have yet to win a point.

Reuters AB RN1726