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Marcelino: “Football is not favouring us at the moment”

Marcelino: “Football is not favouring us at the moment”

Marcelino believes Athletic deserved more against Granada, saying he was “satisfied” with the performance of his players despite the draw

Marcelino García Toral bemoaned Athletic Club’s lack of favour from the footballing gods after Friday night’s 2-2 draw with Granada CF in Bilbao.

The Lions took the lead through Raúl García, but Granada overturned the score and were 1-2 ahead at half-time. Nonetheless, Athletic showed heart and fight, Iker Muniain forcing Luis Maximiano into scoring an own goal during a goalmouth scramble 15 minutes from time.

“Football is not favouring us at the moment,” Marcelino said during his pre-match press conference. “In football, everything is very evenly matched. We played a bad game against Cádiz and in the next two games, there was very little difference between winning and not winning.

“We could’ve beaten Levante and we could’ve won today. We started very well, then we conceded two goals that we had to anaylse, because it’s not possible to have so much bad luck.

“However, the team kept going. I think we played well. They had attitude, work hard and performed well. The only downside is that we conceded two goals. In the last few games we haven’t been able to keep a clean sheet. Our defensive record is positive, but conceding two goals today has cost us a lot. It’s the first time this has happened this season.”

The boss admitted spirits were low in the changing room, saying: “The feeling in the team is one of sadness, it can’t be any other way. And I’ve told them they shouldn’t be.

“I think we went for the game from the first minute. We came out pressing and we had chances. They feel that they’re not getting what they deserve for their performances on the pitch. Our opponents score with little and it’s hard for us to score.

“After a bad game, the team reacted well. So, it’s a pity that we didn’t get all the points. Even so, I’m satisfied with what I saw tonight.”

Marcelino went on to praise the atmosphere at San Mamés, thanking the fans for their constant support throughout the fixture.

He said: “With the atmosphere today, it was a great shame not to get all three points for the fans. The players felt the fans’ support. Despite the adverse result, we didn’t rush things. I would like to thank the fans and let’s hope they keep it up.”