FCBARCELONA.CAT

13.09.2008 23:05

Guardiola: "We deserved to win"

Roger Bogunyà

Pep Guardiola considered that his FC Barcelona side played better against Racing than they did in Numancia two weeks ago and regretted that the visitors to Camp Nou manage to score with their only shot at goal.

The Blaugrana boss found similarities between the match on Saturday evening and the first game of the new season in Soria. "We created a lot of chances, but we just could not convert them," he explained. "The team is doing well in defence, but scored an easy goal against us."

Anxious moments

Barça took the lead in the 71st minute when Lionel Messi netted from the penalty spot and Guardiola was pleased that his side showed "patience" in order to take the lead. Racing's quick equaliser came after the home team played "with anxiety" the coach stated, which he felt was understandable. "We did so much in order to go ahead that it was always going to be an anxious time if we drew the game with such a quick goal."

Racing’s plan

Racing Santander came to Camp Nou to "slow down the rhythm" of the game, according to Guardiola and the coach felt that their plan worked to an extent as they were "well organised at the back" and despite the fact that Barça won the ball back quickly, Racing did not cause problems "because they did not move out and just stayed back".

Up front

Guardiola then looked at his forward's performances and explained that he chose Pedro to start "because I knew that Racing would close up shop at the back and that he could help open things up on the wings and that he is a very courageous player". On Samuel Eto'o the trainer continued: "At times he has tow ork harder to score, but I am pleased with he work he did." Helb's injury also caused concern. "Up until now we have been lucky with injuries and it seemed that we were adapting well."