Marcelino: “Overall we were superior”

Athletic Club manager Marcelino praised the Lions dominant performance in their 1-2 victory over CD Alcoyano in the Copa del Rey round of 16 on Thursday night.

The Rojiblancos were made to suffer, as the home side took the lead in the first half. But goals by strikers Asier Villalibre and Iñaki Williams saw Athletic turn the match around and move on to the Copa quarter-finals.”

“Even though they hit the post, I thought we had a good start,” Marcelino said at his post-match press conference. “We controlled the game, but it’s true there were many minutes where we lacked depth.

“After the break we equalised quickly and in the second half Alcoyano hardly troubled us.

“We were incisive and created chances. That greater depth, together with everyone’s hard work, is what gave us the victory.

“Our second-half performance was very complete and I think that overall we were superior.”

Marcelino recognised the impact his second half substitutions had. Iker Muniain, Raúl García and Williams played a big role in turning the match around for Athletic.

“The statistics are there for all to see, we know that they are three very important players,” he added. “The fact they are brilliant offensively increases the team’s chances.

“But we must also highlight the work done by Jon Morcillo and Oihan Sancet. The work they did from the start ensured their teammates could give that plus after the break.

The Athletic Club boss refused to be drawn into commenting on the Rojiblancos chances of reaching a consecutive Copa final, saying: “At the moment I am just happy with what we are achieving.

“Five consecutive victories, winning the Super Cup with wins against Madrid and Barça, five goals against Getafe and also these two victories in the Copa.

“Above all, I’m pleased with the work the players put in every day.

“Now it’s time to enjoy tomorrow’s Copa quarter-final draw and start thinking about Sunday’s game in Barcelona.”