FCBARCELONA.CAT

01.04.2007 00:57

Rijkaard: "We have deserved to win"

Frank Rijkaard admitted that he regretted that FC Barcelona were unable to put the result against Deportivo La Coruña beyond doubt after creating numerous scoring chances, but said that he was pleased with the overall performance.

The Dutchman put a positive light on the 2-1 victory in Camp Nou on Saturday evening as the Blaugrana came up against a resurgent Depor outfit, who offered more than their mid-table position implied. "We deserved to win," was the Barça coach's frank assessment, but then focussed on ensuring that his side improve on how to overcome pressure from the opposition.

"A work of art"

The combination of Ronaldinho and Lionel Messi that led to the first goal saw Rijkaard become excited in the post-match press conference: "It was a work of art and gave us great confidence," he said.

"We played quite well and created chances. Everyone then waited for the third goal, but they have reduced the gap with a goal. That served as a warning to us."

A great job

The Barça boss then said that his side have to improve on certain things: "We must not be effected by the opposition's pressure," Rijkaard continued. "Because of that we have to have everyone well positioned." He was keen to congratulate the players on a strong performance, however, especially after the majority spent most of the last two weeks on international duty. Rijkaard also picked out the scorer of the winning goal, Samuel Eto'o, for special praise. "His persence, pressure and goal were great."