Joan Laporta Opens Up On Rayo Vallecano Defeat: “Luckily Girona Did A Good Job”

Speaking at the press conference to address the Espai Barça funding, Barcelona president Joan Laporta also took the time to talk about the team’s defeat to Rayo Vallecano last night.

The Catalans had a golden opportunity to go 14 points clear at the top of the table after Girona had defeated Real Madrid 4-2 on Tuesday in La Liga.

However, Barcelona failed to make the most of their chance as they were condemned to a 2-1 loss by a Rayo Vallecano team that was much superior on the night at Vallecas.

Manager Xavi Hernandez had spoken about how the team was angry with the result last night and club president Laporta claimed that the fans were also unhappy about what went down at Vallecas, saying (h/t SPORT):

“The Culés are not happy today after yesterday’s defeat in Vallecas, the game didn’t go well.”

However, he was thankful that Girona had defeated Real Madrid 4-2 earlier in the week, which ensured that Barcelona still have an 11-point lead at the top of the table.

“Luckily Girona did a good job the day before. The main objective is still the league, we are 11 points behind second and there are seven games left,” he said.

And, the club supremo then requested the fans to keep supporting and cheering the team in the remaining games, saying: “We ask the Culés for their support.”

This is not the first time that Barcelona have failed to capitalise on the misstep of Real Madrid this season. But, Xavi’s men continue to enjoy a significant advantage in the table and with seven matches left to be played, are odds-on favourite to lift the La Liga crown.

Up next for the league leaders is a tricky test against Real Betis at home, following which they will face Osasuna.