Francisco hails Almeria effort

Almeria Coach Francisco has hailed the ‘enormous effort’ of his players despite their 2-1 defeat to Barcelona in La Liga on Saturday evening.

The Andalusians took a first-half lead through Thievy Bifouma and were in the driving seat until Luis Enrique’s decision to bring on Neymar and Luis Suarez during half-time changed the complexion of the match, as the Catalan giants turned the scoreline in their favour.

“We feel proud, we feel like we have competed but are sad because we had chances to score more goals, like we have done in many matches this season. We made ​​an enormous effort today, so I must thank the players,” he told reporters after the match.

“Against Barcelona, you’re looking at the scoreboard from the first minute. Our approach worked perfectly until [Barca’s equaliser].

“They weren’t comfortable, we defended well and attacked them effectively and regularly. In the second half, with the changes they made, Barcelona’s substitutes won [them the game]. Their equaliser made ​​us think we were going to suffer.

“In every match, we’ve competed. We may miss other things, but attitude? No.”

Francisco then touched on Barca’s unusual starting XI, the changes that his counterpart made at half-time and Fernando Soriano’s role in the execution of Almeria’s game plan.

“We sensed that they could make changes because they played in the Champions League, but I was surprised to see Suarez and Neymar on the bench,” he added.

“Nevertheless, Pedro and whoever else can play for them always give 100 per cent. In the second half, they improved greatly and left us with a huge tear.

 “There were key changes in [Messi’s and Suarez’s] position. Barca had a reference point once Suarez came on.

“We were well-prepared for the match. Soriano wasn’t just playing as a midfielder, he was our transition from defence to attack.

“He played well and put in a great shift. In the first half, we were comfortable. The pity is that we had no prize at the end.”

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