
“Lokomotiv” team head coach Mikhail Galaktionov shared his thoughts after the match against “Pari NN”. This was reported by Euro-football.ru.
During the match, we had the initiative and were leading 3:1. We could have scored a fourth goal, which would have made the game easier to finish.
However, we created unnecessary pressure on ourselves and allowed the opponent to score a response goal. This opened the way for the opponent to return to the game.
Especially in the last 15 minutes, such actions are not correct. We told the players that taking two days off after the game and going back to the field on the third day is difficult, and the heat is also affecting.
In such situations, it is necessary to find strength and not give the opponent a chance. Nevertheless, we achieved victory in a difficult away game.
Overall, the game was mostly under our control. We could have scored in several more situations; we had opportunities.
We are satisfied with the result, except for the fact that we gave the opponent a chance in the last minutes. As a coach, I think about restoring the balance of the game when both teams score in a short time.
This can be achieved through substitutions or giving instructions to the players. For example, we did not plan to substitute Batraqov, but it became necessary due to the circumstances.
Initially, we played with two forwards, then we added another player to the midfield, thus trying to help the defenders. Batraqov has no injury, but we substituted him to avoid any risk.
He was ready to continue the game, but he felt pain in his muscles. He also participated in the Cup match recently, so we thought it best to give him a chance to rest.
The health of the players is important to us, and we did not want to take any unnecessary risks.”