Ilya Fedotov: «We definitely deserved to win»

Neftekhimik defenseman Ilya Khokhlov speaks with the media after a following 3–2 win against Metallurg Mg.

– I would like to thank our fans for their support. I think that it was important for us to win today. You know, it is great to get a win before the break. We played like a close-knit team and completed the coaching staff’s task for the game. We definitely deserved to win.

– What was it like to play against your former team?

– You know, all the games are important for us. I just wanted to play and got a win with my team.

– The head coach of Metallurg Mg said that their team played bad in the second period and that was a key moment of the game. What was a game-changer for Neftekhimik?

– In the second period, we played well offensively, especially in their zone. We also made good shifts while were playng in offensive zone.

– Did you know that today Metallurg Mg arrived at lunchtime and went to the game without a pre-game skating?

– Oh sure. I have a good friend Nikolai Goldobin. We wanted to meet before the game and have a talk. When I found out that they were coming only today, I thought that we have to punish them (laughs).

– As you know, there is a break before second half of the season. What will you do?

– Tomorrow, I will fly home with my family. I need to spend some time with my parents, family and friends. Just have some rest from hockey. After that, we will get together with the guys in Nizhnekamsk and prepare for our playoffs battle.