Nikita Khoruzhev: «It was a tough game»
18.02.2025
Neftekhimik player Nikita Khoruzhev speaks with the media after a following 3–2 win over Ak Bars.
– It was a tough game. The fans saw a real crosstown rivalry. First we took the lead, then the opponent bounced back. But we found the strength in ourselves, and without slowing down the pace of the game we won.
– You beat a high-profile opponent for the second game in a row. How do you manage to get the emotions out of them?
– We don't have many games left. And every point is worth its weight in gold. Naturally, everyone hopes to get to the playoffs, putting in maximum effort.
– How important is the Tatarstan crosstown rivalry?
– The Tatarstan derby is always fiery. Lots of fans come and drive their team forward. Of course, this all adds to the principled nature.
– Can you comment on your goal? As I understand it, you specifically asked for a pass?
– Before the shift, we agreed with Di that if there was an opportunity, we would go on the attack while short-handed. As practice has shown, everything turned out that way.
- What did you focus on most in the third period?
- First of all, we should have played more strictly in defense. Of course, if necessary, to catch the opponent on the counterattack and strengthen the advantage.
– You beat a high-profile opponent for the second game in a row. How do you manage to get the emotions out of them?
– We don't have many games left. And every point is worth its weight in gold. Naturally, everyone hopes to get to the playoffs, putting in maximum effort.
– How important is the Tatarstan crosstown rivalry?
– The Tatarstan derby is always fiery. Lots of fans come and drive their team forward. Of course, this all adds to the principled nature.
– Can you comment on your goal? As I understand it, you specifically asked for a pass?
– Before the shift, we agreed with Di that if there was an opportunity, we would go on the attack while short-handed. As practice has shown, everything turned out that way.
- What did you focus on most in the third period?
- First of all, we should have played more strictly in defense. Of course, if necessary, to catch the opponent on the counterattack and strengthen the advantage.
