Reina put the hosts ahead shortly after half-time, but Abel Ruiz equalised before Oleksandr Pyshchur completed the comeback for Girona. The result spoiled the start of Raúl's project in Asturias, despite an encouraging performance from Oviedo in several areas.
The new coach had outlined his intentions before the match, making clear the kind of football he wants his team to play.
“We want to be a very pressing team, very vertical,” Raúl said.
However, his first game brought an immediate reminder of the demands of the division. Oviedo had opportunities to build on their lead but were unable to take advantage, allowing Girona to turn the match around.
Reflecting on the defeat, Raúl felt the contest had been closely fought and that his side had been punished at a crucial moment.
“I think the match was even, but when we were playing at our best, we had the 2-0 in two situations that were very poor. Girona turned the game around. Those details are very important in the Segunda, but I take a lot of positives from the performance and the intention.
“We rushed things on the ball. We weren't good enough in that respect, and it's normal that the supporters are unhappy, just as we are.”
Raúl also acknowledged that his players had been too hurried in possession, an aspect he intends to address as he works to introduce his ideas.
The former Real Madrid striker insisted that there was no reason to lose confidence after one disappointing result and promised that work would begin immediately to improve the team.
“We are going to keep working. This club and this city do not give up, and today everyone was expecting something different. In this sport, sometimes you don't get the debut you dream of. It was something that could happen.
“Tomorrow we will get straight back to work to strengthen the things we have done well and improve the things we haven't.”
Oviedo had taken the lead through Reina in the 47th minute, but Girona responded with two goals in the space of five minutes. Abel Ruiz levelled in the 59th minute before Pyshchur struck in the 64th to secure all three points for the visitors.
For Raúl, the immediate task is to turn the encouraging elements of his first performance into results. His message was one of determination, with the coach making clear that the club's response to the setback must begin on the training ground.