Marcelo Bielsa: It was an energetic and valiant effort

Marcelo Bielsa: It was an energetic and valiant effort

Head coach on Burnley win.

Marcelo Bielsa gave his reaction to seeing his side secure three points, with a 1-0 victory over Burnley at Elland Road. 

The head coach was pleased with his side, who had to show resilience in defence to secure the win, following Patrick Bamford’s first half penalty. 

Bielsa said: “In the first half we defended very well and this was helped by the fact we finished our attacks in the opposing half. 

“In the second half we had to defend closer to our own goal and it was difficult for us to solve some duels.

“Especially in the last part of the game, it was an energetic and valiant effort from the guys, and very decisive.  

“The version of the game in the final part of the second half and perhaps in the whole second half, it was the game they wanted to play. 

“We weren’t able to stop them from playing the way they wanted and neutralise them. Although we defended fiercely, the opponent had chances to score. 

“It was very difficult for us to position ourselves in their half.”

Marcelo was asked how pleased he was seeing his side gain 20 points from the first 15 matches of the Premier League campaign.  

“What I normally have responded is that we’ve had our ups and downs. 

“Our objective is to be able to compete on an even keel with all our opponents in the Premier League, but it is not an easy task.  

“For example, if you look at what happened at the end of the second half. We had to adapt to a situation we hadn’t faced up until now and the result was in danger. 

“So every game in the Premier League is a big challenge.”

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