Igor Larionov speaks after game one against CSKA

HC SKA head coach Igor Larionov:

"It was a good start to the series. Unfortunately, though, we couldn't emerge victorious. I'm proud of our guys and the committed efforts which they displayed. We were a bit unlucky, but the series is only just starting. The main thing is to recover correctly and prepare for Wednesday."

If Artemiy Pleshkov could have been provided with more assistance...

"Let's not draw any conclusions from just the one match. After all, we have been using two goalkeepers throughout the campaign. We need to sleep, analyse this game and make a decision with regard to our next match."

Why Joe Blandisi didn't play...

"Joe is here and is preparing for game two. The first match has only just ended, so we will make all decisions concerning game two tomorrow."

Taking three penalties in overtime...

"I don't want to complain about the officiating. Of course, it's natural that fouls can be committed because of fatigue. In the playoffs, I expect a more serious approach to certain fouls. We can't control the decisions which the referees make, but we will send videos of certain incidents to the KHL."

Young players' performance...

"We had five Gagarin Cup playoff debutants today! In my opinion, they all played well. This was a good test for them, and I'm sure that they will improve with every passing game."

What was said after the first period...

"Not a lot of words are required in the playoffs. We focused on the details such as duels, helping your teammates and defensive play. At the same time, we wanted to keep the creative aspect of our game intact. Everyone understands that the price for mistakes in the playoffs is high. Overall, there were periods of the match in which we played very well."

Injury sustained by Valentin Zykov...

"I spoke to him after the first period, and he said that he doesn't feel great. We'll have more information in the morning."

Fatigue in overtime...

"It took its toll, yes. We wanted to play with three lines which are capable of creating scoring chances. The three defensive pairs used did feel fatigued. Nonetheless, it's a part of the playoffs. It's tough to play one and a half overtime periods, especially for the more experienced guys. We now need to sleep well and get ready for Wednesday."