30.09.2006 12:09

Rijkaard happy with attacking options

Frank Rijkaard voiced his satisfaction towards his team's attacking strength. Both Gudjohnsen and Saviola getting on the scoresheet in Barça's first game without Samuel Eto'o.

Both players were the focus of attention following their performances on pitch. Gudjohnsen started for the first time and changed places with Saviola in the 71st minute; both players finding the net in a game which finished (1-3).

The importance of Guddy's goal

"It's always important to be able to score goals, I'm happy for both Gudjohnsen and Saviola, their goals helped to calm the nerves of the team. Moreover, we were able to create many chances in front of goal", said Rijkaard. He also added that: "Gudjohnsen has not played a full 90 minutes yet, but worked hard to find his goal. His goal, the second for Barça, was important for him and the team".

Maximum Motivation

Things didn't start too well for the blaugrana; Bilbao opened the scoring in the 11th minute through Yeste's well taken volley. In this sense, Rijkaard highlighted "the motivation and desire shown by Barça throughout the encounter in the search of victory".

Red card for Casas

A turning point in the game saw Bilbao defender Casas given his marching orders early on "it was a foul, but I didn't see if he was last man; I can't say whether it was red or not, it was up to the ref". Rijkaard did, however, recognize that "the dismissal changed the game".

An important victory

"Satisfied" due to the win and, "important" due to the fact both strikers have found the back of the net.