Marcelo Bielsa: The performance today was a step forward

Marcelo Bielsa: The performance today was a step forward

Head coach reacts to victory against Burnley.

Marcelo Bielsa gave his reaction to the media after his side ran out comfortable winners over Burnley at Elland Road.

The Whites were in control of the match for large periods, but did have to overcome a fightback from the visitors in the second half. 

After the Clarets had equalised and cancelled out Jack Harrison’s opener, Stuart Dallas and Dan James found the net to earn the three points.

“It was very necessary and it was a relief for us to be able to get it,” Bielsa explained. 

“We managed a fair victory. The difference I feel was also fair. It's very difficult to play against Burnley. They have a clear how they want to play and they always keep the differences close. 

“We managed to get in behind, there was a lot of combination play, there was a defensive security even if it wasn't absolute.

“It was important and we had the ball a lot of the time. And we managed to finish our attacks in the opponent's half.

“In general lines, we dominated the game. We created danger, they created not too much against us, but the game was very difficult to sustain. 

“I thought that it was going to be difficult to dominate. We played a lot like how we wanted to play.”

With victory, the Whites have moved eight points clear of Burnley, but have played two matches more than Sunday’s opponents. 

Bielsa said: “I don't ignore the situation that we're in and I also don't ignore what my responsibilities are.

“In football, every week you have to prove yourself. Even if the performance today was a step forward, you need to maintain that level of performance against any opponent and in any pitch. 

“The game today was a game of a lot of commitment.”

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