With perspective, reasoning becomes sharper, quicker, and more measured. This perhaps explains why Rubén Torrecilla has softened the wave of criticism Hércules faced after a third straight loss in the Torrent in 2024. The team has slipped from leading positions to a distant fifth, and the blue-white coach now argues that none of his three rivals, Espanyol B, Formentera, and Torrent, who defeated him in the new year, were superior, noting that the losses came down to small details.
The cloud of doubt surrounding the squad began to lift after the Valencia match when the coach urged his players to perform an internal examination. A perceived lack of professionalism, watching matches, and understanding what was at stake were cited as issues. Five days later, the message shifted to a calmer, more balanced tone consistent with the Alicante club’s realistic standing. Although the European leader’s victory did not bring a single point, the win over Lleida added a positive note.
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Nobody felt pressured; all three matches unfolded with unevenness due to minor details. The key factor is the goal—the mood of the game, the difference between a cheerful exit and a disappointing one. The team is still executing much of what it did well before: pressing high, creating chances, and building play. The missing ingredient remains goals, Torrecilla observed ahead of the trip to Sant Andreu.
Localized problem
Concentration emerged as the primary issue attributed to the Torrent side in set-piece defense. The team was unable to contest certain plays, allowing the opposition to complete routines with little protest. The recurring problem is a lapse in focus, while the rest of the performance remains solid and unyielding. The coach emphasized that this was a singular mistake amid a ninety-minute circle of good decisions, insisting that the side has shown quality across the board in recent weeks. If this team had not been the same as five weeks ago, there would be more concern; but eight weeks ago and today, the coach argues, there is a broader pattern of responsibility. The squad has undergone notable changes since its inception, with new faces balancing the balance of play. If the team continues to rotate players, the season could stretch long, he warned.
The coach reiterated: the opponents came at them twice before and failed to score, but now they did. The team had been scoring before, yet a drought followed. Injuries have also contributed to the current rhythm. Still, turning this dynamic around requires a strong attitude and a structured plan. Torrecilla suggested that the squad would prefer to see results improve over time rather than approach the end of the season with a dwindling schedule.
Bad moment… very normal
Life brings ups and downs, and football mirrors that pattern. The impact landed on Lleida, already out of contention. Now Hércules believes Europe could be their next arena. The coach noted Hércules remains three points behind the top spot and maintains that this pace should translate into opportunities on their home field.
Torrecilla did not describe the Sant Andreu clash as a final, instead urging calm. He stressed the importance of trust: if the team were not running or pressing, that would be a cause for real worry, but every player has shown effort. Winning one match is not enough; the objective is to win as many as possible.
Solution… also for Michel
The plan is to arrive with improved execution and a positive attitude. The coach underscored that the squad is more than capable and that the passion surrounding the project fuels the members. A large turnout of roughly 9,000 spectators contrasts with the smaller crowds that arrive early, illustrating a growing enthusiasm. This sense of momentum is not accidental but a direct result of collective devotion to the shield. The manager hinted at potential recruitment and indicated that the transfer window remains open for Hércules. A defensive midfielder who could help balance the lineup may be on the horizon, with hopes of a smoother close to the season. The departure of the old guard mirrors what Torrent did, signaling a fresh chapter ahead. The idea is to keep the spirit high and close out the season with energy, aiming to finish strong on the pitch and in the standings.