Athletic Bilbao vs Real Sociedad - Caparros calls for high intensity

Posted Saturday, April 23, 2011 by PA

Athletic Bilbao coach Joaquin Caparros says his side will be ready for an intense derby encounter with Real Sociedad.

Athletic and Real meet in the 33rd round of Primera Division matches, in what is an important clash for both sides.

Athletic, currently in fifth place, will go in search of a victory to see them boost their chances of a place in next season's Europa League, while Real need three points to ease their relegation worries.

"We have to play at a high level collectively and with intensity, but above all, be consistent over the 90 minutes, be efficient and have some luck as we did in Pamplona if we are to win the three points," Caparros said.

The Athletic coach was referring to last weekend's trip to Osasuna, in which his side created very few chances but came away with all three points following a 2-1 win.

"It's going to another very hard game," he added.

Iker Muniain, Xabi Castillo and Gorka Iraizoz are all suspended, but Fernando Amorebieta hopes to shake off a knock to be fit in time for the game.

Meanwhile, striker Joseba Llorente will be missing for Real.

"They are missing players, but so are we, and it will be hard match - whoever plays," Real coach Martin Lasarte said.

And Real's players, who ended a wretched run of five defeats with a 2-1 win over Sporting Gijon last weekend, are excited ahead of the derby.

"We are all really looking forward to it," captain Mikel Aranburu said.

"The dressing room is fired up and it's a big motivation for us."

Xabi Prieto added: "It's the biggest away game of the year for us and of course it means a lot to our fans."