The head coach expressed his happiness with the win, but he underlined the need to improve in defence
Villarreal CF head coach Marcelino García Toral has appeared before the media after the last-gasp victory over Celta Vigo (4-3).
Here are the highlights of what the coach had to say:
Summary of the match
‘It was a very attractive match for the fans. The head coaches will be satisfied with two phases of the game, the counter-attack and attack in the offensive part of the game, and we will be less satisfied, at least in my case, with the defensive part. I’m happy with the result, but also with the fact that we played a very complete game. We didn’t deserve to go in at half-time with a bad result and in the second half we were good. The game was a bit crazy, not just the end. What I do think is that the 3-3 result for Celta was a boost for them and a disappointment for us, and I think they outplayed us in that final stretch and had three chances to score a fourth goal. Overall, I’m proud and satisfied with the players.”
Defence, an aspect to improve
“We are not able to correct our weak point from last season, and we have to be aware that we have to correct that aspect. But we’re at the start of the competition, with some new players like Logan Costa who has only been in training once, with two injured full-backs, which forced us to play Kiko Femenía and Sergi Cardona 90 minutes more, which is now even 100 or 110 minutes in some cases, and the efforts are noticeable. We have to put everything in the balance, and I’m very proud of the team, and, moreover, we have a very good feeling overall.”
Performance of the new signings in the second half
“The players who have joined us have given us a lot and we are very happy. Barry, Pepé, Pape Gueye, Ayoze and Logan Costa have only been with us for a short time, and we need a little time to introduce the players to our idea, but the truth is that they have given us extraordinary sensations. Thierno Barry has made his home debut, and the first ball he touches is a great goal. That’s a blessing. I think they all played at a very good level for us. We can be a good team, we have to improve defensively, but I’m very proud.”
Great atmosphere at La Cerámica
“I’ve been here for a long time and I don’t remember many games like this. We are very grateful. The team gave them a great show and a great attitude, and I think that’s contagious. They realised that we needed their support and that makes the results more positive. I want to thank them and tell them that I hope we can have many more nights like this.”
