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“These games are life or death”
Manolo González is vying a home win for the visit of Real Sporting de Gijón
With five games to go, Manolo González is clear that the team have to give everything ahead of Sunday’s match against Real Sporting de Gijón.
Speaking at the Ciutat Esportiva Dani Jarque on Friday, González said, “These are crucial matches, regardless of the opponent. They are life or death games and we have to go out with that mentality on Sunday. All the upcoming games are finals, for us and for our rivals opponents.
“Our last game at home was horrible. We have to demand more from ourselves. It is time to take a step forward and push even harder”.
Espanyol host a direct promotion rival at the Stage Front Stadium this weekend, with visitors Sporting starting matchday 38 outside of the play-offs but breathing down the neck of those currently in those positions. On the other hand, González’s side lie four points off automatic promotion, with the clear goal of taking maximum points from now until the end of the season.
González continued, “It is very important to start the game well because that gives you confidence. We have to try to make the team have as much punch as possible. Sporting are a well-rounded team with a lot of strengths, they are well organised by a good coach. Football has changed and has become much more equal”.
However, the biggest advantage will be playing at home in front of a packed Temple. González said of the support, “Our fans will be the differentiating factor. Every day they are with the team, and we want them to continue doing that until the end. At home we have not been strong and we want to give joy to the fans”.