Vladimir Bryukvin: «We are in the playoffs race»
14.03.2025
Neftekhimik forward Vladimir Bryukvin speaks with the media after a following 2–1 shootout win over Lokomotiv.
– It was a tough and tight game with few dangerous moments. We were in offensive zone less often, but we still managed to score first. We quickly lost this advantage, but I think it was good for us. We felt more confident, and in the end we even won.
– Did you initially understand that we would have to defend a lot?
– We tried to move the game into offensive zone. Sometimes it worked, sometimes it did not. I noticed that when we played less aggressively, the opponent took the initiative into their own hands.
– Neftekhimik blocked a lot of shots.
– Yeah, because of the game itself. Firstly, Lokomotiv had more territorial advantage. Secondly, the season is coming to an end, we are in the playoff race. Now every point is worth its weight in gold. Everyone understands this, so we are trying to do everything to achieve what we want.
– In the post–game interview, you jokingly said that Oleg Leontyev forgot about you in the shootout...
– I said it as a joke. But otherwise, I always watch the guys' attempts so that I can understand how best to execute my shot. You always need to be ready.
