Valverde: "These three points mean a lot to us"

Ernesto Valverde praised his Lions' performance after their 2-0 victory over Villarreal at San Mames, admitting that the three points "mean a lot" to the team.

Goals from Aitor Parades and Iñaki Williams helped Athletic to a relatively comfortable victory which sees them remain in fourth place and go six points ahead of Villarreal.

"It was an important and difficult week for us. We had three games and we won all three," Valverde said at his pre-match press conference.

"We started the game very well although they made it difficult for us at times. Every time they escaped our press they showed they are very strong.

"We had to be very attentive to everything. At the end of the first half we struggled because they're very good. Then in the second half they started well, but we were more settled and more in control of the situation.

"Little by little we imposed ourselves and that's where the second goal came from. These three points mean a lot to us."

Valverde further emphasised his high opinion of Marcelino's side, stressing that it was a good test for Athletic.

He continued: "It was a very confident game from our side. We were very solid.

"Matches against Villarreal are always tough because they have a lot of strengths and they never give up, even when you take the lead.

"Sometimes it's good for you when it seems it wasn't easy to win."