Levante Coach Rubi explained the shock win over Atletico Madrid as ‘this is football’ and ‘we owed the fans.’
Atletico’s defeat at Ciutat de Valencia, to a late Giuseppe Rossi goal, knocked Diego Simeone’s side out of contention for the title, Les Granotes becoming only the third side this season to score twice against Atleti, even though they were already relegated.
“This is football. Every game starts 0-0 and that’s an advantage the weakest team always has. Then you have to prove yourself. We were at a very high level,” Rubi told reporters, according to AS.
“We’re still sad [to be relegated]. I’m pleased that my players applied the work. Atletico, tired? They played on Tuesday, they had five days to prepare for this game. It’s a long season. I think you have to give credit to my team.
“It’s very difficult to score against Atletico. The second was easier, maybe, because they were taking more risks. In the first we did well on the flanks and we were then very effective, when on other days we haven’t been.
“We’re responsible for the relegation. I feel we owe something to the public, so everything they’ve given us is welcome.”
Rubi added that he doesn’t know if he’ll be kept on by the Valencian club, and discussed the final day, on which relegation and the title will be decided.
“We have to compete against Rayo Vallecano. I said I was prepared to help, but what is clear is that if the club isn’t convinced, it’s best I don’t continue,” he acknowledged.
“I expect a very exciting last day. Both [Real Madrid and Barcelona] play for the title and nothing is decided in the relegation. It should be thrilling. Who do I want to win the title? I prefer not to answer, because I don’t have to.”
