All those supporting Dynamo have finally been awarded with supreme action, goals galore and convincing victory over the archrival. Yuriy Semin, who does not look on First Channel Cup games as demonstration ones, had passed his first serious test with the White-Blues after taking reigns just a few weeks ago. The manager talked to the media people at a press conference following Dynamo’s 3-0 win over Spartak Moscow.
- My lads did well defensively. Besides we bossed the ball possession and were good at making up combinations. The other thing I enjoyed is that it was a host of players, not separate individuals, who showed the superb display.
Q: What was the reason for being cautious when introducing substitutions?
A: All the footballers had been playing in a terrific way and I did not want to bring down the course of the game. Also, I had some fears our reserves would not be able to settle.
Q: Did the team follow all your pre-match instructions?
A: I’ll put it this way. When a team loses, one may say they did not stick to the coach’s instructions. If they win, you say just the opposite. My guys did some mistakes, which I find natural. But I also noticed the “idea” in the game.
Q: With the goal set to win the tourney, how do you like the prospect of facing Shakhtar in the final?
A: There are two things of paramount importance for us here in Israel. These are winning the competition and preparation for the spring part of the league. The First Channel Cup games contribute to the good training. I find it OK to play vs. Shakhtar, but to be able do so, the two teams need to make it through to the final first.
Q: Will you involve more young prospects in the game vs. Crvena Zvezda?
A: Yes, we will vary the line-up. Our next contender is a not an easy one, especially that they only commence their campaign on Saturday.
Q: Are you in the know it was Dynamo’s first ever victory in Israel?
A: I think the time has come to break the deadlock.
