2012/2013 Playoffs. Game 3, Traktor vs. Ak Bars – 1:0 (2 OT). Press-conference after the match

Valery Belov, Ak Bars’ head coach:
Congratulations to Traktor on a well-deserved victory. It was clear from the get-go that Traktor would leave it their all on the ice; in fact they dominated most of the contest and scored a logical goal which got them the win. It could have ended earlier though, but we have what we have.

Valery Belousov, Traktor’s head coach:
I don’t know about you, but I am pretty exhausted (smiles). Congratulations to my players – they fought like their lives depended on it. Tomorrow’s going to be a different game though.

Question to both coaches: What do you think is more convenient in the playoffs – sudden death overtimes or penalty shootouts?
Belousov: Overtimes, however difficult they might be.
Belov: I agree, except there’s one little thing – if it was one game in two days, it would be easier for everyone involved. I heard somewhere these ‘paired’ games are for the sake of the national team, but I don’t think there’s a lot of time saved.

Question to Belousov: When is Panov expected to be back? He’s a very important player for the team.
Belousov: He has a serious injury which doesn’t allow him to skate properly.

Question to Belousov: Could you please explain your decision to have Nesterov play center?
Belousov: We didn’t have a fourth center and Nikita played at this position for Medvedi.