Gracia: "I'm satisfied with how we competed."

Javi Gracia spoke to the media following a 0-0 draw against Eibar, giving his view on what occurred at Ipurua. 

Dissatisfaction with the result

"I'm satisfied with how we competed. We knew that we had to be very practical in this game, as Eibar are the LaLiga side who regain the ball closest to the opposition area. In the first half we played better than we did in the second. In the second it became a more open game, and I think that we had the clearer chances. There was a shot by Racic, another by Maxi Gomez that went behind, and the great opportunity for Gameiro at the end. Eibar had some chances from crosses, but we defended those very well. Our dissatisfaction comes from not going on a run of consecutive wins."

Analysis of the game

"We played the way that we wanted in the first half: Far away from our goal and generating some chances. There are things that we have to improve, and we need a little more calm with some moves, but the game was going how we expected and it was only a lack of finishing that we didn't go ahead. I aspire to getting the team playing better all the time." 

Making consistent improvement

"I'm optimistic, because in the opening games I was the first to acknowledge that we were picking up points but weren't the better side. In these recent games I think it is fair to acknowledge that the team are competing well, and that we are closer to winning -or to taking more points than what we have now. We are improving and are on the ascent. We are a team made up of young players who need time to grow. I believe that, in the short term, this improvement will allow us to pick up a run of wins. That way, the young players will feel more confident -and in the end we will meet our objective of placing as high up as possible."

Confidence in Gameiro

"Kevin Gameiro is a player who works very well every day. Every time that he gets minute, he has a clear chance or an assist, such as that for Vallejo against Alavés. He's not getting a regular run, and that doesn't make it easy to perform at his best. However, his experience means that he will be an important player."