Luis Enrique has admitted Barcelona were poor during their win over Almeria on Saturday but admits he was impressed by their second half desire.
Enrique made a bold decision leading up to kick off as he rested Xavi Hernandez, Dani Alves, Gerard Pique, Luis Suarez and Neymar.
That decision backfired for the former Celta Vigo boss as the home side took the lead and left Barcelona in desperate need to turn the game end.
Substitute Luis Suarez changed the game as it was his two assists for Neymar and Jordi Alba.
“It’s basic stuff. To be successful you need to win playing badly, like today,” Enrique told reporters. “With the difficulties that Almeria created for us and our mistakes and lack of fluidity the result is the best thing about today.
“We were unable to counteract an Almeria side that were shut up at the back and who scored against us on the counter. We didn’t play well, but with attitude and effort from the players we came back.
“We need to keep getting better and keep looking at what hasn’t improved. I don’t know if we are above or below what was expected.
“We knew they would leave spaces outside and look to play tactically, moving the ball up fast. The game got tougher, the substitutes made the difference, not in the style of play, but in the chances created. That doesn’t cover up the fact we played badly.
“The individual players were below par. We need to improve to get our style of football back and to keep winning games and picking up points. That’s the objective.”