Serie C 2024/25: Pro Patria-Triestina postmatch

After the goalless draw between Pro Patria and Triestina, manager Pep Clotet spoke to the press.

Clotet:

“It’s crucial not to have conceded a goal; this is only the second time we’ve managed that this season. We played a solid first half, creating several chances to take the lead, but we slowed down both in pace and physically in the second half, resulting in a more balanced game. We need to be more ruthless in front of the goal; we’re creating opportunities but failing to convert them. If you can’t score, not conceding is vital, which is a positive step forward for the team.

Avoiding goals is progress, but we need to capitalize on every opportunity we create. It’s a point we’ll take, yet we must build from here with a mindset to be more decisive offensively. I had hoped to stagger the substitutions more, but with players like D’Urso returning from injury, it’s important to ease him back and focus on his physical recovery. In the second half, our offense became somewhat chaotic. I wanted to open up the play by bringing on Kiyine for his one-on-one skills and El Azrak for his speed, hoping for more impact in the final minutes, but it didn’t fully pan out as planned.

When I arrived, I set four key goals. First, enhancing our physicality; we’re progressing, though it may take a couple more weeks to reach peak condition, given recent injuries. Second, addressing our vulnerability on set pieces, both in defending and creating threats. It’s unlikely to eliminate all risks, but we’re seeing improvements. Third, focusing on vertical play, fast attacks, and defensively preventing easy scoring opportunities for opponents. Lastly, increasing the number of chances created; though we’re generating more, we still need to find the net with consistency. This area will require continued hard work.

I’m eager for the three points. We’ve had two small but positive results in these draws, but I see the team hungry for victory. We’ll keep working hard to secure those three points in front of our fans, who I want to thank for making the long trip to support us today. They helped us immensely, and I thank them on behalf of the whole team. I’d also like to send greetings to the city of Trieste in honor of San Giusto’s Day, a special day for the community.”