Torpedo - SKA. Press-conference

HC SKA head coach Vyacheslav Bykov:

- We knew that every game for Torpedo is critical, and that they need points. We thought that it would be a serious match with Torpedo pressing hard, and it turned out to be exactly that. We tried to play in a disciplined manner, especially in defence. I have questions for my forwards though, as with their class we should have taken advantage of our chances. Well done to both goalkeepers during the game, and to Igor Shestyorkin in the shootout.

- Are SKA preparing for the play-offs, having already booked your spot?

- We have been preparing for the play-offs all season long. We got to know our players, and then they have understood what we demand from them. Every game is a learning curve. We need matches like today's, and the players understand how to perform in such big games.

HC Torpedo head coach Pēteris Skudra:

- Thanks to our guys for this game. We played as we wanted. Our discipline was at a good level, and the players gave their all the whole way through. Both Mikhail Biryukov and Mikko Koskinen played a great match. We're finding goals hard to come by, but today we really tried against such a powerful opponent. We need to keep on working, not giving up. The guys are feeling positive, they themselves understand everything, and a big thanks to them for that. We move on. If we will continue playing like that, victories will come.

- What meaning does this retro kit hold for Torpedo's players?

- Our young players understand very well just what city they are playing in, and what hockey traditions this city has. However we try to win wearing any kit.

- Rate how your foreign players are performing. Do you not want to change the lines up?

- These three players have been playing together all season. We need to fix our line combinations, and at the end of the season there is an opportunity to do this. These players are playing with each other for the second season running, and they should understand how to perform together. Today they didn't show their class with a man's advantage.