2012/2013 Playoffs. Match #7, Traktor vs. Barys – 5:3. Press-conference after the match

Vladimir Krikunov, Barys’ head coach:
We were motivated for what could have been, and turned out to be, the last game for us. Unfortunately, the nerve of the match got the best of our young goaltender; he allowed the goals that he should not have allowed. However, I can’t reproach my players for anything; we fought hard throughout the series and did our best to advance, but sadly enough, neither Yeremeyev nor Lassila were able to appear tonight.

Valery Belousov, Traktor’s head coach:
I would like to thank my players for the victory. We are still in the playoffs.

Question to Belousov: How is Traktor going to overcome Avangard with so many problems in the defense and first line’s lackluster performance?
Belousov: Come on; give us a time to get ourselves together first!

Question to Krikunov: Had Yeremeyev not been injured, would Barys have better chance in this series?
Krikunov: I think yes we would. Let’s take even tonight; we scored our three goals, but allowed the ones we should not have.

Question to Belousov: In all of seven matches we only saw the first line score in one.
Belousov: It happens; Barys built a great defense, that’s why it was so hard for the first line to get through. One way or the other, they perform well and have their moments; the only thing that is left to do is to start scoring.

Question to Belousov: Do you think Traktor was able to contain Barys’ North American line?
Belousov: I think we were. They only scored four times in Game 1. I have to say I liked this line a lot; they are the leaders of their team; plus, they complement each other very well.

Question to Belousov: What happened to Shinin?
Belousov: He got hit in the head; it might be a concussion.

Question to Krikunov: Barys’ first line too could not boast their performance goal-wise.
Krikunov: We did not allow a single goal in tonight’s match when they were on the ice.

Question to Krikunov: Are you dismissing your team?
Krikunov: Yes, there’s no use holding them now. In two weeks’ time the players that are going to represent team Kazakhstan on 2013 World Championships will begin their preparation.

Question to Krikunov: Is the North American line staying in the team for the next season?
Krikunov: Yes, it is.

Question to Krikunov: After game 5 you said that your team was seemingly on vacation, but in the very next match we saw a different Barys.
Krikunov: That was my plan all along.