After the match against 'Neftchi' in the 9th round of the Super League, 'Andijon' temporary head coach Artyom Petrosyan participated in a press conference.
About the game
- The fans were expecting a victory. We played against a serious opponent who organized the game very well. We managed to penetrate the opponent's first and second zones. We only faced problems in finishing the attack. The opponent did not give us opportunities, and we also struggled to create situations. In two instances, we caught the opponent on the counterattack, but later they played in such a way that this situation could be observed after losing the ball. I congratulate the opponent once again on their victory. They achieved a fair win and punished us thoroughly.
- Was it difficult for you to prepare the team for the game without a head coach?
- The psychological state of the whole team is at a very low level. Five consecutive losses, being without a head coach. The team seemed to be waking up, but it was not enough. I think we do not have enough time to get out of this difficult situation. Now there is a game every 3-4 days. Consecutive losses, losses, losses - all the players are in a psychological pit. It takes more than 3-4 days to get out of this.
- In today's match, the center of the field was almost lost. What are your thoughts on this?
- The players of 'Neftchi' were stronger than ours. We not only lost the center, but also lost the ability to get back into position after losing the ball. The players in the center of the opponent were faster than ours. The skill of the players in the opponent's penalty area and our penalty area is noticeably different. For example, while we could not enter the opponent's penalty area, they scored two goals from 3-4 situations. That’s the difference.
- In both goals scored today, Oleg Zoteyev is to blame. He is playing as the team captain. There is no trace of the Oleg Zoteyev from the beginning of the season. What can you say about his performance?
- The first goal was not scored from Oleg Zoteyev's wing. He fought for the ball and won it. Then we lost the ball. During the pass, our right wing defender lost his position, and Sayfiyev scored. In the second goal, as you mentioned, he is to blame. Zoteyev lost in a one-on-one situation. What can I say... Any player makes mistakes. There is no player who does not make a mistake. All the players are satisfied with him. Perhaps youth is having its effect. But Oleg approaches his work professionally, works with all his strength in training, and is a player worthy of the main squad.
- In today's match, midfielder Rustam Turdimurodov was replaced by Usmonali Ismonaliyev, and later you quickly brought in forward Islam Mashukov instead of a defender. Is this related to your tactical vision?
- This is a gamble. Playing Usmonali in attack is not new. He has played in attack before in 'Andijon' and 'Bunyodkor'. We needed an agile player in attack. However, our plans did not go as expected.
