11.02.2010 23:44
Pascual: “It was a big step forward”
Sònia de Alba
Regal Barça coach Xavi Pascual have spoken about the importance of winning tonight and having made sure of wins in both home Top 16 games so far.
“The fans have enjoyed the game against the best team in Europe, and who will remain so until
somebody takes their title”, said Pascual, who described the win as “a big step
forward” in the Euroleague.
“From what we have seen perhaps the difference was short, but
they are a tough team” he added.
“It was a great game and an important victory, especially given the group
standings”, observed Roger Grimau, the highest rated player in the game (24) and who led
Regal Barça scoring (17 points).
Víctor Sada added that “everyone worked hard, and because we led from the start, I
don’t think people appreciated how important the game really was. It was one of the most
important so far”.
“We prepare for games well and they are in a last chance situation, so it was always
going to be a hard game. But we knew how to make the most of those factors and carry the
game”, said the guard.
Obradovic congratulates Regal Barça
Zeljko Obradovic, Serbian coach of Panathinaikos, said “I must
congratulate Barça. They deserved to win.”
Obradovic knows his side is in trouble, but pointed out that “we have difficult games
in the Euroleague and also the Greek league, but we have to do our best and our fans will always
help”.
On Regal Barça’s overall Euroleague chances, Obradovic stayed cool. “It is too
early to say because it is never easy to win the Final Four. All four teams will have the same
chance. But Regal Barça is a team that should be there” said the most successful coach of the
modern era, who is also impressed by what Pascual is achieving. “All he needs now is to win
the title. That’s important in our profession”.
“I thank him for his words. Coaches live off wins and losses. But it is titles that
really win you credibility”, replied Xavi Pascual.