Press Conference «Sibir – Neftekhimik» 1/17/2026
17.01.2026
Neftekhimik Head Coach Igor Grishin speaks with the media after a following 1–0 win over Barys.
– The home team had a slight advantage at first. We prepared for it, and we had a clear plan. One of the points was to commit as few fouls as possible. We know that one of our opponents' strengths is their power play. And the guys followed that plan 100% – they didn't take a single penalty. They did a great job converting their chances. Our leaders made their mark today.– We are used to seeing your team attacking. However, today we consciously gave the puck to our opponents and played a precise, waiting game...
– Firstly, our last game is away. The time change is taking its toll. The previous game against Barys was very tough, and the day before we also had a match against Ak Bars, where we spent a lot of emotional and physical energy. That's why we tried to take as much of the load off the guys as possible yesterday so that we'd be fresher today. The opponents, after losing the puck, quickly retreat and set up a tight defense in the neutral zone, and if they intercept the puck, they play on the counterattack. So the guys were told to simplify the game so there would be fewer turnovers. The most important thing was to win.
