The Navarran-born manager comments: “I’m happy with how the game developed, as we played the final minutes with two players having been sent off, but the rest of the team fought with pride and passion.  The fans’ amazing support was vital in securing tonight’s three points.”
 
From a defensive point of view, Javi Gracia is pleased with his team’s performance: “The boys performed well.  They were forced to defend more at the back than we would have liked, but this was the most effective approach to the match.  Looking at our attacking display, we started off without a lot of ball possession, but knowing the pressure we were under upfront, we struggled somewhat as the rival imposed their style of play.  We need to work on finding the right balance.”
 
Starting the League season off with a win feels good for the Blue and Whites: “We have been given a real boost having claimed tonight’s points, which will help with our confidence, security, credibility…We know that this is only one game, but winning three points tonight is a reward for all our hard work during pre-season training, and I think it’s a great prize both for the team and the fans.”