Pellicer: “We let two points slip away”
The Málaga coach held a press conference after the draw against Racing. “The draw is okay because we played against the leader, but I’m frustrated because of the hard work the players put in,” he said.
Match analysis
“The key was the first half. I think we rushed things, knowing that they had a high defensive line. Those one-on-one situations are like that. In football, to reach paradise, you need goals. It frustrates me a lot because I see the players train, and they score those chances. In the first half, against a team that has shown why they have those numbers, we were superior. No one has done to them what we did. In the second half, they maintained the rhythm, and we struggled more. With the changes, we started to threaten the spaces again and create more chances. Anyone who didn't watch the match will see a 0-0 score... It's unbelievable; there were so many situations. Today, yes, I believe we let two points slip away. It’s okay because we played against the leader, but I’m frustrated because of the hard work the players put in.”
An unusual 0-0: great chances and saves
“It frustrates me because I see them train. I believe their goalkeeper made three key saves. We went from Castel’s potential 1-0 to Lago Junior’s near 0-1. Today, we saw the two best goalkeepers in the league.”
Strong performance from the team
“It’s good that it frustrates us. The team maintained its identity, that spirit. We did everything, but it’s the small details. Sometimes, we have fewer chances but still score. All we can do is keep working. We need to keep improving. Today was a good opportunity because of the opponent, who lost their first away match. We were closer to winning than losing.”
Physical toll on the team
“The players are doing well. I think we’ll lose Luismi and Víctor (due to suspension), but they’ll be available for the Castellón match. Tomorrow, we’ll focus on recovery, we’ll train on Monday, and on Tuesday, we’ll travel to my hometown. The team is fine, they gave their all. I think we’ve played two matches where the team deserved more. We compete in every game.”
Good performance by Lobete
“He's a player who can play on the right, on the left, or as a second striker. He brings a different profile. We usually look for a player with a more associative style, but that’s the good thing. On Wednesday, other teammates will step up. Lobete is giving us a lot, stretching the opposing defence with his runs... He’s in great form, and I’m really happy for him because he had a tough start. There will be moments for everyone.”
Together and united we’re stronger
“The Málaga fans are exemplary in every way. Together, we are much stronger. He’s a 17-year-old kid who is showing a lot of potential. The unity we have is very important, nothing should disturb that, and we must continue on this path. It’s the way to achieve great things.”