JOSE Riga believes his Charlton Athletic side can steer clear of relegation from the Championship - despite Saturday's 3-0 defeat to Derby County.
The result at the iPro Stadium left the Addicks only above the drop zone on goal difference, though they do have games in hand on their rivals.
Goals from Johnny Russell, Patrick Bamford and Chris Martin ensured the visitors left the East Midlands empty-handed.
"We were not in the game at all in the first half and we had many difficulties," said Riga, who recently took over from former Derby favourite Chris Powell.
"We were not able to play as we can and also we made some defensive mistakes.
"In the second half, we created chances but we must be more efficient at good moments in the game.
"But the main thing is still to believe, because I believe, for sure, that we can avoid relegation.
"It will not be an easy story but the players have to believe in it as well, because we have put something in place.
"The important thing now is that we have a good recovery before we play Leeds on Tuesday.
"But I do believe and I want to be able, with the players, to write the last chapter in the way that we hope it will be."
