Press Conference «Neftekhimik – Admiral» 1/10/2026
10.01.2026
Neftekhimik Head Coach Igor Grishin speaks with the media after a following 4–2 win over Admiral.
– The beginning of the game was similar to the previous one – we had the initiative and created many goal–scoring chances, but were unable to score. We also conceded at the end of the first period... There were also similarities in the second period – the game was played without the neutral zone, both teams had dangerous moments. During the second break, we talked to the guys and said that, regardless of the score, we should try to change the path of the game. Fortunately, Zhafyarov scored an unexpected goal. This gave us energy and the guys brought the game to victory.
– It seemed that the confident play of the opposing goaltender made your players nervous...
– Yes, it was so. In both meetings it was difficult for us to score goals, although there were plenty of chances. Of course, the guys start to get nervous; not everyone has a strong psyche. I think this is why we lack energy in completing things. When the players calmed down and switched their thoughts to positive aspects, the game went well for us. In the end, they got it. I think this will be a lesson for them.
– In the second period, Popugayev missed several shifts, and Krivolapov came on instead. Why?
– I am always trying to find playing time for Krivolapov. Back then we played in the majority, and teams are created from several units. So the moment arose when the opportunity arose to release Krivolapov.
– When will Dolganov return?
– He did not hit the ice. We will go to Kazan and conduct an examination. Filipp says he is feeling better now. But he haven’t been on the ice yet.
Admiral Head Coach Oleg Bratash:
– I’m glad that the team’s play is improving. Unfortunately, today this did not produce any results.
– In your opinion, what did the team lack?
– Our team played well, in the second period we actually won in shots. I think we, at least, played no worse than our opponents. Identical in the final game segment. The goals conceded did not follow from the logic of the game.
– It seemed that the confident play of the opposing goaltender made your players nervous...
– Yes, it was so. In both meetings it was difficult for us to score goals, although there were plenty of chances. Of course, the guys start to get nervous; not everyone has a strong psyche. I think this is why we lack energy in completing things. When the players calmed down and switched their thoughts to positive aspects, the game went well for us. In the end, they got it. I think this will be a lesson for them.
– In the second period, Popugayev missed several shifts, and Krivolapov came on instead. Why?
– I am always trying to find playing time for Krivolapov. Back then we played in the majority, and teams are created from several units. So the moment arose when the opportunity arose to release Krivolapov.
– When will Dolganov return?
– He did not hit the ice. We will go to Kazan and conduct an examination. Filipp says he is feeling better now. But he haven’t been on the ice yet.
Admiral Head Coach Oleg Bratash:
– I’m glad that the team’s play is improving. Unfortunately, today this did not produce any results.
– In your opinion, what did the team lack?
– Our team played well, in the second period we actually won in shots. I think we, at least, played no worse than our opponents. Identical in the final game segment. The goals conceded did not follow from the logic of the game.
