Yemchenko – about the victory over Zenit in the third match for bronze in the United League: “There was an intention to enjoy the game”

Lokomotiv-Kuban defender Vladislav Yemchenko told Match TV that head coach Alexander Sekulic urged the players not to be afraid or nervous, setting up the team for the key match in the VTB United League bronze medal series with Zenit.

Lokomotiv-Kuban beat Zenit at home on Thursday in the third match of the bronze medal match (90:87) and reduced the series lead to three wins – 2-1.

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— “Loko” made serious conclusions after 0–2 in the series for third place?

– Certainly. After each game we work on our mistakes and see where we can improve. We understood that in previous matches the difference in the score was small. There was an opportunity to send the game into overtime. We understood that we were fighting, even though some of our main players were injured. Now there was an attitude to go out and enjoy the game, to fight for each other. Everyone who came out contributed their energy to the victory. The home stands also helped a lot. The coach told us not to be afraid or worry. Especially those who have recently received little playing time. Today Sashka Shcherbenev got time – I’m glad for him. Came out because I got five fouls. Sanya came out, scored, and defended. Well done! All the guys are great.

— In what ways was Lokomotiv stronger than Zenit?

— I have always noted the cohesion of our team. In this match, of course, there were mistakes, but I liked how the ball moved in attack, how we communicated in defense, and how we fought. “I’m very happy about the victory, we’re getting ready for the next game,” Yemchenko told Match TV.

Watch VTB United League matches on the TV channels of the Match subholding, as well as on the websites matchtv.ru and sportbox.ru.

VTB United League. Match for 3rd place. Lokomotiv-Kuban – Zenit. 4th match