Andrei Nikolishin: I question my players’ ability to stick to game plan

Andrei Nikolishin, Traktor head coach:
- Congratulations to Neftekhimik on a well-deserved victory. Nothing I can say about the desire and will to win from my players; however, I question their ability to stick to the game plan. We typically do not comment on officiating, but I think the first goal scored by Neftekhimik should have been ruled out due to an offside.

Vladimir Krikunov, Neftekhimik head coach:
- Thank you. We had a good start with two early goals. Despite several penalties, we hung on to the victory. Although Traktor outshot us, we were able to take more meaningful shots. Three goals is a great result for us. We were also great defensively tonight, and that despite the fact that I changed three of the four lines compared to the Friday game.

Question to Krikunov: When are Zdunov and Polygalov expected to be back?
Krikunov: Zdunov will return soon enough. Polygalov underwent a serious surgery; he can’t even hold a stick properly for now. Nonetheless, both participate in skating sessions.

Question to Krikunov: Is Khairullin back yet? How is he feeling?
Krikunov: He is fine, although not in a very good mood. He was not feeling good in the morning, so we decided not to put him on the lineup. He seems to be feeling much better now.

Question to Krikunov: Will he appear in the next game?
Krikunov: We should fill one obligatory young player spot on the lineup. Given that Khairullin was absent, we had the right to replace him with one ‘adult’ player, so to speak. Now that he is back, it’s either him or Poryadin for the next tilt, and I have not made up my mind about it just yet.