Rubi: 'We’re eager and excited to extend this positive streak'
The UD Almería head coach acknowledges difficulty of back-to-Back home wins but stays focused on upcoming challenge against SD Éibar this Saturday
UD Almería head coach Rubi is eager to continue his side’s recent momentum as they prepare for this Saturday’s home clash with SD Eibar (KO 9pm Spanish Time). The match presents a chance for UD Almería to secure their second consecutive home victory, something no team have managed in the league so far this season.
'We’re eager and excited to extend this positive streak,' said Rubi, outlining the team’s ambition for another 3 points. However, the gaffer is mindful of the challenge that winning two home games in a row presents. 'No team have yet managed to win two back-to-back home games and we see it as a challenge,' he added.
The Catalan explained the difficulty of securing consecutive home victories: 'It’s complicated. After winning the first match, maybe the second one feels less important, but the truth is it’s not easy to achieve. Quite the opposite.' Despite the challenge, Rubi views the match as a step forward in the broader picture, stressing that 'this is a marathon' and what truly matters is strengthening their position in the league’s top group. 'We’re not obsessed with being directly in the automatic promotion places,' explained he said.
While UD Almería have had limited time to prepare following their midweek Spanish Cup match against CF Lorca Deportiva, Rubi is confident his side can rise to the occasion, with SD Eibar facing the same fixture congestion. 'SD Eibar are in the same situation as us,' said the Vilassar de Mar native. 'There are no excuses. We have videos and other tools to fine-tune our preparation, in addition to our on-pitch workload,' he added.
SD Éibar, despite their lowly away form, remain a formidable opponent. Rubi firmly believes their current record doesn’t reflect their true quality. 'It’s unfair. They deserve 6 or 7 more points. They’ve had some of their opponents on the ropes,' he insisted.
The head coach praised SD Eibar’s organisation, emphasising the challenge they will present with their disciplined high press and experienced squad. 'They’re very well-organised, they press high, and they have quality players. They will make it very hard for us. We won’t have long spells of possession like in other matches because Eibar won’t allow it,' he concluded.
Despite the difficult task ahead, Rubí remains confident that Almería will maintain their attacking style, with the support of their fans playing a crucial role in their continued success.