FCBARCELONA.CAT

05.05.2007 23:19

Rijkaard underlines importance of away win

Vanessa Forns

Frank Rijkaard has commented on how important it was for Barcelona to take all three points from their visit to San Sebastian, an objective that was achieved with a 2-0 win that ensures at least one more week at the top of the table.

“We played well and I think the team deserved to win such an important game away from home”, said the Barcelona manager, who will be relieved to know his side will stay top of La Liga regardless of what happens in Sunday’s showdown between Sevilla and Real Madrid. Rijkaard praised his players for their attitude, saying every one of the squad had performed perfectly over the course of the 90 minutes.

“We only have to worry about ourselves”

Patience will be the virtue from now on, and the Dutchman spoke of “carrying on working” and “only worrying about ourselves” and adding that “we have won our game, now let’s see what happens on Sunday”.

Scoring first the key

Until Andrés Iniesta scored, the Barça coach was aware that his side was finding it hard to break down the rock solid Basque defence. “In the first half, the opposition was well organised at the back, but we created some good chances that we failed to finish off. After the restart, and after it became 1-0, Real Sociedad opened up a bit more, and that meant we had more opportunities to play deep”.

Praise all round

It was two through balls from Ronaldinho in the second half that led to both Barça’s goals. Frank Rijkaard explained that “we wanted him to play in the middle to create through balls like that. That way he participated more. His passes were undoubtedly masterful and important”, although the coach added that he was delighted all-round with each and every player’s performances.