Coach Kosta Runjaic was pleased with the outcome in the Coppa Italia last-32 tie with Salernitana at Bluenergy Stadium. Here’s what he had to say in his press conference after the 3-1 triumph.
“It all went according to plan. We needed to win and the lads were motivated to do so and get through to the next round. I’m happy, particularly given how we played in certain phases of the game. We kept the ball well and scored plenty of goals, so it’s another step forward for us. We’re disappointed about the injury to [Martin] Payero, which seems serious. He was really suffering and crying from the pain. I hope he can recover soon. We’ll be right by his side. That’s football. It’s part of the game, but he did show his passion and control before the injury, and did well to earn the penalty. His injury is the only negative today.
“Everyone who played today can also get minutes in Serie A, but they need to ask themselves who can play when and against which opponents. Based on the situation, we need to reflect and take decisions. I’m pleased with how the lads played tonight. I knew it wouldn’t be easy. James [Abankwah] was making his full debut and he did make a mistake, but these things happen. I’m pleased with them. They’ll get better over time.
“It was an important match, particularly because we were favourites and absolutely wanted to reach the next round. As for the defeat at the Olimpico, we have to understand that Roma played really well and deserved the win. That was simply a game that we have learnt lessons from. We’re far from the level that we want to reach, but we’re continuing to progress and we’re getting better. We need these games. We have another important game on Saturday against Inter, which will be tough. Now we want the players to recover from today’s game and do better than we did in Rome. We’ll certainly be buoyed by our home support.
“Iker [Bravo] played really well. He played for longer than we thought he would but others had some issues and he stayed on the pitch. [Isaak] Toure hadn’t played in a long time and he did well. We need everyone.
“The lads performed on the pitch. They showed the right level of tension and that’s how you need to play. Without focus, every game becomes difficult. We need these things and the lads implemented them well. Some players did particularly well, such as Iker and [Jaka] Bijol, who led by example as captain.”