Rubi: ‘We’re playing against rivals who are growing’
The head coach warns that playing a team that gets more points as visitors than as hosts is a capable threat.
‘We’re playing against rivals that are growing as they’re a great squad,’ warned UD Almeria head coach Rubi at the pre-Huesca presser before this Saturday’s fixture at the Juegos Mediterráneos Stadium. At the same time, he does not want to take for granted their inconsistent losses because they are still a capable threat.
What's more, as he explained, ‘They’re a former Primera outfit. Although they didn’t start as they’d have liked in terms of results, they’re now getting back those good vibes. Every week, they seem to have more confidence in what they’re working on with the new head coach.’ He then added they’re building a strong squad with a good defence and also very important players up front.’ Rubi pointed out ‘they get better results as visitors as they haven’t conceded a goal in 44% of their games.’
For those who doesn not know, the UD Almería gaffer was in the driving seat of SD Huesca in the season of their first promotion to the top flight...and he did not hesitate to recall that happiness ‘I’m fond of the city and the club because it was a wonderful year that I’ll never forget.’
Regarding the characteristics of the next adversaries, Rubi explained ‘we must be extremely cautious and give it our all in our game if we want to outplay them because if every game in Segunda Division is really difficult, taking on opponents like them, it’ll be even harder.’
Joan Francesc Ferrer Sicilia clarified ‘we continue working to improve some specific aspects in our style of play, but the main thing is that we can give continuity to the things we usually do well.’
It is the second consecutive game at home and at a statistical level ‘it’s not easy to collect the 6 points. It seems that you’ve done it and then the reality is different,’ he said. Anyway, ‘UD Almería have been winning 7 games in a row,’ something that we don't look at, neither the players nor the coaches. We’ll face each match without looking back, focused on who we have in front of us with humility and hard work, which is the only formula.’
It is Rubi’s fervent hope that the UD Almeria fans cheer on the Rojiblancos this Saturday from the Mediterraneo red stands. Their total support earned them his heartfelt gratitude.