Riera: from bench to backbone at Hercules
Hercules defender Roger Riera stressed that the players were the first to feel the pressure from the Alicante club’s season and he clarified that signing for the club was not meant to see them finish in mid‑table this summer. In a direct, on‑the‑record moment, the center‑back described a mix of anger and disappointment with Hercules’ results, yet he remained confident in his teammates. With relegation concerns looming and a clash against Lleida set for Sunday at noon, the blue and white side looks to reclaim momentum.
Hardest week of the season after a run of tough results?
Indeed. It’s never easy when wins dry up. The team has faced a sequence of disappointing outcomes, leaving players hurt but determined to reverse the trend. They aim to start that turnaround this Sunday with renewed focus and collective resolve.
A Monday reflection and a candid team talk
After a difficult stretch, the squad gathered to express what each member thinks and feels. They understand the club’s expectations and the responsibility that comes with wearing Hercules colours. The Monday meeting opened honest dialogue, acknowledging shortcomings while reaffirming the desire for everyone’s growth and the team’s well‑being.
Riera: from unemployment queue to property in Hercules
Defense is under a constant gaze in football, yet Riera emphasizes the shared nature of the game. It is a collective effort; individual prestige has little space when the team needs goals and results. Wins and losses belong to everyone, and they share the burden together.
What about the psychological side of poor results?
Riera notes that while he isn’t sure the issue is purely psychological, the need to reverse the slide is clear and urgent. The run of negative outcomes has stretched for weeks, and turning it around is the immediate objective.
The season began brightly but gradually shortened as luck and execution drifted away
Early performances showed promise, but the form dipped as goals conceded increased. The team works daily to address weaknesses, push forward, and restore confidence across the squad.
Lleida approaches on Sunday
From the perspective of Hercules, there is no room for complacency. The focus remains on self‑improvement and tightening the aspects of play that have been problematic, with the aim of extracting a result from the upcoming match.
Hercules goes quiet
The recent clash between the coach and the squad left fans disappointed, and the team edged closer to the relegation zone. The players are blunt about their initial expectation to never accept a mid‑table finish. They acknowledge the fans’ disappointment and stress their commitment to changing the course of the season.
Discontent with the project?
Riera describes feelings of anger and frustration as understandable reactions to the slow start. Yet he remains unwavering about his colleagues and the support staff, confident in their ability to develop and improve. The work week has been demanding, but the drive to produce positive results persists.
Are they optimistic about overturning the situation?
Yes. The group meets daily, trains with intensity, and believes the turnaround is possible. The shared conviction that progress is within reach keeps the players focused on tangible on‑field actions.
What message did the coach share during the week?
Like the players, the coach recognizes the unpleasant nature of the moment and stresses the need for daily, concrete effort. Words have meaning, but the real change shows on the field, through commitment in every drill and every match moment.
Overall, the moment calls for unity, accountability, and a relentless pursuit of better performances as Hercules heads into another pivotal period of the season. Until a clear upturn arrives, the group remains determined to prove their worth through action and resilience on the pitch.