SKA - Metallurg Novokuznetsk. Press-conference

HC Metallurg Novokuznetsk head coach Sergei Berdnikov:

- It’s a shame that we created an anti-record for ourselves. SKA are a fantastic team, they are NHL level. We did what we could, but against these opponents, you have to play with courage.

- How do you motivate your players?

- Today, I told our guys that SKA have players who have made their name through hard work. I asked them to show their potential. Unfortunately, with our financial situation, we cannot sign true leaders. Some of our players are playing only their second KHL season, they need experience.

- Oleg Znarok: - I can add that Metallurg lost a lot of strength in their previous game with CSKA.

HC SKA head coach Oleg Znarok:

- The opponents’ team were aggressive, they even outshot us at one point. They have young, hungry players who fight for every puck. Metallurg have character. They don’t have enough quality yet, but it’s clear why so many of their guys to go bigger teams. Congratulations to SKA for the victory.

- This is the fourth big victory in a row. Are you in better physical shape now?

- After the last game, I stated that we have enough strength. Psychologically, we found it a bit tough because we weren’t capitalizing on our scoring chances.

- Why hasn’t Steve Moses played for a while?

- He’s injured.