FCBARCELONA.CAT

19.04.2008 23:16

Lack of goals once again key problem for Rijkaard

Vanessa Forns

Despite expressing his satisfaction with his players’ attitude and mentality throughout the game against Espanyol, Frank Rijkaard sees Barça’s inability to score as their main problem.

Barça had a great number of chances to score during this Saturday’s match against Espanyol at Nou Camp, none of which were they able to turn into a goal. The Barça coach once again stressed the psychological importance of getting that first goal, just as he did after the previous nil-nil home tie against Getafe.

A matter of confidence

“In football, the ball either goes in or it doesn’t. These days, what counts is the work that the team is putting in. Once you get the first goal, it gives you the power to make a real difference to the score line. Lately we’re working to get that first goal, because once you’ve got it, you feel stronger”, Rijkaard explained.

“We didn’t get on top of things”

Along these lines, the blaugrana coach praised the team’s work in every game they’ve played, but he still feels dissatisfied with his team’s inability to get on top of the game: “The team worked hard to get a good result, but it wasn’t to be. We had a lot of chances, we didn’t score and we were a bit unlucky. Things change when you get a goal. We need to keep working on scoring that first goal. We have to congratulate the team on their attitude and mentality, but we can’t be satisfied because in key moments we didn’t take advantage.

No giving up on the league

Despite the nil-nil draw against Valverde’s men, Frank Rijkaard assured us that his players haven’t given up on the league title. “Giving up isn’t in our mentality. We have to get ready for each match, and try to win all the remaining games”.

Messi and Marquez gaining pace

The Dutch coach also spoke about players like Messi and Marquez, who have recently recovered from injuries: “I couldn’t play all those still recovering. With a few more days work, they’ll regain pace and strength”. Finally, Rijkaard said that Henry had had a fever, and Iniesta had suffered a knock during the game.

Training on Sunday at 11:00

The first team will be training this Sunday at 11:00. Apart from the usual post-match training, Barça will begin the preparation for Wednesday’s clash against Manchester United at Nou Camp.