Alexander Nikishin: "I think that the fans enjoyed the game"

HC SKA defenseman Alexander Nikishin:

- What happened in the second period?

- Spartak certainly had a lot more shots than us. We weren't good enough, whereas Spartak displayed excellent ice hockey. I think that all of the fans enjoyed the match, both teams took advantage of their scoring opportunities. Luck was on our side in the end.

- You celebrated your goal with a lot of emotion. Aren't you afraid that Spartak's supporters will now turn against you?

- I didn't mean to offend anyone. I was just happy to score after previously conceding in my shift. I noticed that Danila Kvartalnov had the chance to skate towards my net, so I started skating backwards. However, the puck dropped at my stick, and I managed to hit the target.

- This was your second game against Spartak in Moscow for SKA. Did you feel the emotions?

- The first match was more emotional for me. We've already played 25 games this season, so I didn't think about the emotional side of things. It was different for our first match here.

- Were you afraid that the Spartak fans were going to boo you?

- I know that the SKA and Spartak fans aren't in great relations. However, I like both sets of supporters. I'm pleased that everyone enjoyed the game.

- SKA are leading in the KHL standings. Do you want to reach 10 victories in a row? CSKA Moscow have now won nine on the bounce.

- I'm not counting how many games we've won consecutively, but it will be nice if we continue winning and leading the table. We've had tough matches in Moscow, and we will soon fly to the Far East. We will try to win all of our games.

- How comfortable do you feel as a SKA player? This is only your first season, but it already feels like you've been playing for the team for years!

- My teammates have made me feel comfortable, they immediately gave me a great welcome in the summer. I like the close-knit group which we have. I feel excellent with SKA!