Cádiz CF head coach Gaizka Garitano spoke to the media after his team's victory against Real Sporting, secured by Chris Ramos' first-half goal.
Second half:
"We were anxious to win. Chris' injury conditioned us a lot. We had to defend deep, and except for the final minutes, we didn’t suffer much. In the second half, it was harder to get forward. We needed the win because of our situation. I'm very happy with the victory."
Importance of the win:
"We must keep going, but this win gives us a good cushion. It was very important, and it validates the point we earned in the previous game. Naturally, there was some anxiety due to the scoreline. We played the match we needed to under the circumstances. We must finish the season well and start next season with changes and a new project. Despite the problems like the injuries to Chris and Brian, the team worked hard and did what was necessary to win."
Different approach:
"I felt we lacked attacking presence at home. Our forwards struggle when playing alone, so we opted for two forwards and had Ontiveros and Melendo operate between the lines. I think it worked well in the first half hour, but Chris' injury disrupted it."
Chris Ramos' injury:
"Chris has a very strong bruise; he’s currently on crutches. It’s likely a tear from the impact, but we don't know yet how long he'll be out."
Type of match:
"We desperately needed to win; it was a crucial match against a direct rival. We started very well, and in the second half, we sat deeper to deny them space, because Sporting struggle when they can't exploit spaces. Within the context of the scoreline, we managed the game well. We needed a pragmatic game today, and it worked."
Fali:
"Víctor has played everything, but he had problems this week and missed a few training sessions. He had some discomfort, so we decided to start Fali. I think he performed very well. In this division, beyond improving other aspects, victories are often secured through defensive solidity, and today we were strong at the back."
Current project:
"I found many good things here. I would love to finish the season as high as possible and start a project more to my liking. I would love to do it here because this is a wonderful club to grow with. We must offer more to our fans."
Contract:
"I have a contract, but I don't want to stay somewhere if the people aren't happy with me. I want the fans to be satisfied with their coach. I won't stay just because I have a contract if I'm not wanted."
End of the season:
"The players know that if we secure survival, changes will need to be made to improve. If I am the one chosen to lead that project, I want to have a say in those decisions. We haven't finished the job yet, and every match matters to end the season well. Most players are under contract, and their performances in the coming month and a half will be key."
Roger:
"I'm eager to use Roger more. He's a guy with incredible spirit. I know he's been training and playing through foot pain that prevented him from being at 100%. As he gets physically better, he’ll be even more important for the team."