FCBARCELONA.CAT

11.02.2010 23:44

Pascual: “It was a big step forward”

Sònia de Alba

Regal Barça coach Xavi Pascual have spoken about the importance of winning tonight and having made sure of wins in both home Top 16 games so far.

“The fans have enjoyed the game against the best team in Europe, and who will remain so until somebody takes their title”, said Pascual, who described the win as “a big step forward” in the Euroleague.

“From what we have seen perhaps the difference was short, but they are a tough team” he added.

“It was a great game and an important victory, especially given the group standings”, observed Roger Grimau, the highest rated player in the game (24) and who led Regal Barça scoring (17 points).

Víctor Sada added that “everyone worked hard, and because we led from the start, I don’t think people appreciated how important the game really was. It was one of the most important so far”.

“We prepare for games well and they are in a last chance situation, so it was always going to be a hard game. But we knew how to make the most of those factors and carry the game”, said the guard.

Obradovic congratulates Regal Barça

Zeljko Obradovic, Serbian coach of Panathinaikos, said “I must congratulate Barça. They deserved to win.”

Obradovic knows his side is in trouble, but pointed out that “we have difficult games in the Euroleague and also the Greek league, but we have to do our best and our fans will always help”.

On Regal Barça’s overall Euroleague chances, Obradovic stayed cool. “It is too early to say because it is never easy to win the Final Four. All four teams will have the same chance. But Regal Barça is a team that should be there” said the most successful coach of the modern era, who is also impressed by what Pascual is achieving. “All he needs now is to win the title. That’s important in our profession”.

“I thank him for his words. Coaches live off wins and losses. But it is titles that really win you credibility”, replied Xavi Pascual.