Eibar Coach Gaizka Garitano has praised his players for their Copa del Rey run which eventually ended last night at Malaga.
The Basque Segunda Division B side had eliminated Athletic Bilbao in the Round of 32 and held Malaga to a 1-1 draw in the first leg of the Last 16, but fell to a heavy defeat in the second leg on Tuesday evening.
“We were on the ropes for 70 minutes against a team from the Champions League,” reflected Garitano after the 4-1 loss, which the minnows finished with 10 men after Roldan’s late red card.
“We were very close, but their quality was imposed. I’m proud of the work. Malaga have been very strong, and this has been an enriching experience.
“I’m proud of my players and their work. We have been in the tie. It’s a good experience for the kids. This makes them better players, they can leave with their heads held high.”
