Elche boss Fran Escriba praised the fans for helping drive his team towards the 1-0 victory over Real Sociedad on Monday night.
A Jonathas goal on 18 minutes edged Elche closer to top-flight safety on 34 points, six clear of the drop zone, and Escriba stressed the importance of the win against David Moyes’ side.
“We knew it was going to be very important to beat Real Sociedad and it was vital to secure the points at home,” he told reporters post-match.
“This was a well-deserved three points despite the way we suffered and the fans pushed us on towards the end of the game.
“However, we are not safe, although we are closer to it, and there still remains two games at home and four away.
“Our next home game against Deportivo la Coruna, depending on what happens against Atletico Madrid next weekend, could be decisive.”
Elche have been embroiled in financial difficulties all season, with the players and staff allegedly not having been paid for months at a time, but Escriba insists he does not want to get involved in off-the-field matters.
“I don’t want to waste time. I’m unable to ask people to make a financial commitment. Others must explain what happened with the management and the money,” he explained.
