Press Conference «Sibir – Neftekhimik» 1/13/2025

13.01.2025

Neftekhimik Head Coach Oleg Leontyev speaks with the media after a following 2–3 overime loss against Sibir.

– It was an important game for both us and the opposing team. The home team offered us a high tempo, and we accepted it. In principle, there was equality in terms of moments. Only they had four power plays, which we eliminated. We only had one man advantage. Otherwise, the fighting spirit of the game was felt, plus the support of the fans. But the guys did well, they played powerfully, played for the result. So I congratulated them not only on the point they got, but also on the character they showed during the game.

– You mentioned neutralizing Sibir's power play. Today, the hosts had Leipsic in the first pp unit. How much of a surprise was this for you? Or did you somehow adapt to this play during the game?
– No, it was not a surprise. We analyzed Sibir's last game and expected this.

– The previous game aginst Salavat Yulaev was crazy in terms of scoring. Today, it seemed like we saw a less active Neftekhimik. Did you consciously decide to play more reliably? Or did you have no strength left after the last game?
Today the game was played in such a way that it was impossible to open up. I will note that the goalies played well. And we blocked a lot, and the opponent understood the importance of the match. Therefore, I think that in such games there are not many goals scored. Yes, perhaps the game would have opened up. But for this to happen, all factors must come together. I repeat, in such games, when the price of a mistake is high, there are not many goals.

Today, Neftekhimik has not won in Novosibirsk for five years. Do you know such statistics? Do the players know? Maybe this somehow affects the team?
I learned this information today. I do not know how interesting it is for hockey players. Because if the same players had played over these five years, then the situation would have been different. Every year there are changes in the roster. Both our opponents and we. Therefore, I think that these statistics are irrelevant.

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