"The plan was to try not to play too much through the middle, and I think we did that well. Being forced to change our center-backs hurt us because they are very important. I feel we deserved to win in a very difficult stadium, and I am very proud of my team," Ibai Gómez said at a press conference. He also added that "we have seen the kinds of situations we can encounter in this division. The team knew how to compete on a pitch that does not suit us."
The coach was asked about changing the center-back pairing (Iranzo and Diego González) and stressed that "changing both center-backs makes it easier to become disjointed, and on top of that, we have to take the characteristics of this match into account." However, he absolved Tachi and Barrachina of any blame for the two goals conceded.
THE INJURED PLAYERS
Ander Herrera, Iranzo and Diego González were substituted because of physical problems. In the case of the center-backs, Ibai said that initial examinations suggest it is nothing serious, but regarding the captain, "there may be a small tear." The team will now have to wait for the official diagnoses issued by the club during the week.
The standout player of the match was Jaume Jardí. The Catalan winger scored a superb direct free-kick and provided two assists. "He is a player who has to make a difference, and having Jaume with us is a blessing," Ibai stated. He also highlighted Ademo and Saidu's performances in the match.
One of the controversial moments was Torremolinos' third goal, which was reviewed by the FVS at the request of the Zaragoza bench. "I saw a clear offside, but it is true that they cannot call it because it cannot be seen on the cameras. It is difficult for them, and I do believe it was offside," the Basque coach added.
