A share of the spoils was a “fair” result for both sides at the Estadi Cornellà-El Prat on Saturday, suggested Manolo González after his RCD Espanyol side held Atletico Madrid to a 1-1 draw.
The result effectively ends the Rojiblancos’ chances of lifting the LaLiga title this season, with them now six points adrift of Barcelona – and that gap could extend to nine, if the Blaugrana beat Girona on Sunday.
A point for Espanyol against top opposition is a positive, however, with los Periquitos now two points clear of the relegation zone. González insists that the side “are on a very good path,” and are on course to “keep the team in the Primera División, which is what we all want.”
After taking the lead in the first half, Atléti struggled to create chances after a plethora of changes from González after the break. Speaking in his post-match press conference, the Espanyol boss commented: “With the substitutions, we fixed our mistakes, and they didn’t create any opportunities. They can create chances with quality, but I wasn’t afraid of the result changing. They didn’t create any danger against us like in the game against Girona. I’m very happy.”
Espanyol have impressed against the high-flying teams in LaLiga this season, which the 46-year-old says “gives us a boost.”
“Every point is important. This gives us a lot of strength. We have to try to win, but when you can’t win, you have to draw.”
“I guess people will say we’re defensive; I think we’re consistent. We’re doing very well at home. At home, our fans help us a lot because we have a lot of young players, who are encouraged by the fans’ support.”
RCD Espanyol’s match sees them head to Rayo Vallecano on Friday 4 April.