PRESS CONFERENCE «TRAKTOR – NEFTEKHIMIK» 03/01/2022

Press conference «Traktor – Neftekhimik»

Oleg Leontyev, the head coach of HC Neftekhimik:

– It was a hard-fought opening game. Both teams tried to win. We played well throughout the game and had a lead in the third period. Unfortunately, we conceded a goal. During our 6-on-5 attack we had good chances to score. The only thing that upsets is a large number of removals from us. Unfortunate, we got too many penalties. We are getting ready for upcoming game.

– Your team had a lead three times, but Traktor tied the game up on the power play three times. What Neftekhimik shoud do in order to win game 2?

– First of all we should not get any penalties. Traktor did a great job on the power play. We didn't have such obvious mistakes during the season. We must play patiently.

– Was it a part of the game plan to play aggressively?

– Playoff game involve aggressive, tough play. From the very beginning of the regular season, we wanted to see this kind of hockey style. Fans like this kind of hockey. The game plan was to play without deletions and dirty plays.

Anvar Gatiyatulin, the head coach of HC Traktor:

– It was a first playoff game. We had a long break. We played exhibition games during a pause, but the intensity was not the same, the guys did a good job. We were playing according to our game plan. Our team showed dedication and character. Our special teams played well. The whole team played great.