The head coaches of CSKA and Torpedo recapped the game.
CSKA head coach Igor Nikitin:
– It was a tough game. They’re a good team and they’re on a roll. The guys showed great character tonight, which was the key difference compared to the match against Spartak.
– Dmitry Gamzin made a handful of highlight-reel saves today. Could the game have gone differently if not for this?
Dima is just as crucial to this team, and he felt that vibe in the locker room. Just like the rest of the team, his performance varied greatly between last game and today’s match. Just did his job, just like the rest of the guys.
– Today in Astana, the score was 8-6. Which victory is better for you – a win with a high score like this, or a 1-0?
– A win is a win, that’s all that matters.
– What did you think of your offensive play early in the match?
– The opponent played great; their guys are in good shape. We weathered it somehow. It was important for me that the team showed character. If you don't have character, it doesn't matter what kind of hockey you play – whether it's beautiful or defensive. Show character, and you give yourself a chance.
– Why is Robert Hamilton out of the lineup?
– Young Ivan Patrikhayev has made the roster. This enabled us to run a lineup of 12 full-time forwards. The defense consisted of six veterans and one rookie. There is no hidden agenda. The matchups we wanted to see took place.
– Why Nazar Privalov was benched today?
– After the game against Spartak, things go this way. Klim Kostin is out with an illness, so Nazar played. We don't know his capabilities, whether he can play every game. Let's not get ahead of ourselves here. The training process for young players is also crucial. Don't forget, he's only 17. We need to manage his growth carefully.
Alexey Isakov, head coach of the Torpedo:
The game was pretty close. We had great opportunities, but we failed to convert them. We fell short in front of the net today; CSKA handled that area better.
– This is the team third straight road game. Are there any signs of fatigue? Or should this not happen at the beginning of the season?
I don't think it's fatigue, that's just the way the game went today. CSKA matches can be set aside – they are absolute grinds, heavily focused on physical battles and net-front box outs. Today's game unfolded differently compared to the first two matchups.
What does Polyakov need to find his footing and click with the game? You’re trying him on different lines, but are you still expecting more from him?
– He had absolute clear-cut chances in his first two games. He just needs a goal to take the pressure off. One goal could change everything.
– What was missing from Egor Sokolov's game? "What he failed to realize, or perhaps failed to adapt to?
– I can say for sure that this issue wasn't resolved overnight; it was a long-term decision. There were no questions about Egor's commitment, especially during the summer period It comes down more to our specific requests. In a situation like this, you just have to shake hands honestly and move on.
