Goalkeeper Iker Casillas admitted boss Carlo Ancelotti had a lot to say to his players during half-time of Real Madrid’s 2-0 win at Rayo Vallecano.
Cristiano Ronaldo and James Rodriguez saved Los Blancos’ blushes after Rayo had been far superior in the opening 45 minutes, and Casillas acknowledged things needed to be put right at the break.
“The Coach had plenty to say, as did we, because we were creating danger for ourselves playing that way,” the captain told AS.
“We still had problems in the second half but they were less and we were far more solid. There was no need for any shouting at the interval. It was quite clear dropping points is a way to say goodbye to the League and we couldn’t do that.
“It was a difficult match at a tight ground where every loose ball can end up being a problem. We were much more solid and organised in the second half.”
Casillas had nothing but praise for Paco Jemez’s men and how they use the Campo de Futbol de Vallecas to their advantage.
“Rayo always set up just right under Paco. They take the game to you and this is what makes them different from other teams.
“They’ve worked out how to really get the best out of their small pitch and that’s full credit to them. We were under pressure for a while and they created plenty of danger.”
The Spain international accepts Ancelotti may make changes for Saturday’s game with Eibar, but denies it will be welcome relief from some of the whistles he has had to endure this season if he starts on the bench.
“The Coach makes his decisions for the best of the team and it’s something we all accept. The important thing is to win and hope that Barcelona slip up.
“It’s nothing to do with protection. This is a debate that generates more interest outside the club than in.
“What the fans need to do is get behind the players in every game,” he concluded.
