Antoni Mascaro: We are satisfied with the players' work at winter training, the team is ready for the challenge

The head coach of Kryvyi Rih Kryvyi Rih Kryvyi Rih U-19 team, Antoni Mascaro, summed up the results of the winter training camp.

- The team has completed the winter training camp. How do you generally assess this period? Did we manage to accomplish everything planned?

- In general, we are satisfied with the players' work. In the pre-season period, the most important thing is for the players to approach the start of the competition in optimal physical and mental shape, and we succeeded in this. The players are ready for the challenge. However, this period was difficult due to the weather conditions. We had to cancel several matches and train in the arena more than expected, which prevented us from realizing everything planned. Despite this, the team adapted well to the circumstances, and the overall result is positive.

- What aspects of the team's game improved the most during the winter break in the championship?

- First of all, we focused on individual progress. We developed tasks and simulated situations in which the players were given physical, technical and tactical challenges to reach their best level.

- In what physical condition does the team enter the spring part of the season? Are you satisfied with the players' readiness?

- We have done a lot of work in terms of physical training. The coaching staff has planned each stage of pre-season training very well so that the players can reach their best level. We had a few sick players and a few injuries, which may have a slight impact on the further course of events, but overall we are satisfied with the team's condition and the work done.

- Do you plan to change the style of play in the spring?

- We are always ready not to change, but to adapt to the requirements of the competition and the internal methodological requirements of the club. Our main goal is to prepare players for the first team, and if changes are needed for this, we will definitely make them.

- During the winter training camp, the team played a lot of friendly matches. How do you evaluate their results? What did these games show about the team's level?

- Overall, we are satisfied with our performances in the friendly matches. More than the results, we value the positive feelings from the games and the physical fitness of the players. We have reached the level we were aiming for, and our expectations have been met.

- What strengths have been most evident, and what do we still need to work on after these friendly matches?

- If there is one thing worth noting in this pre-season training, it is the players' attitude and discipline. They were truly dedicated to their work, even despite the not-so-great weather conditions. They trained with a great desire to progress and with a high level of discipline. We have seen significant changes since our arrival in the summer and to this day - both in attitude and approach to work, and this has a very positive impact on the development of the team.

- Which of the players has progressed the most in the winter? Have there been any new leaders in the team?

- We are satisfied with all the players who have participated in the pre-season training. Not only our U-19 guys, but also the U-17 and UFC-Kryvbas players. They all showed a high level, and their desire to work and improve deserves respect.

- What are the goals for the U-19 team in the second part of the championship?

- The most important thing for us is the development of the players both individually and as a team. Therefore, the second part of the competition will be held in the same direction. If we can continue to attract players to the first team, as was the case during the winter training, we will be very satisfied.

- What will be the indicator of a successful season for you?

- The progress of the guys. Seeing their level increase and good play during training and matches with the first team will be our biggest victory. We are not so focused on the place in the standings, but on whether we really help the players to debut and establish themselves in the first team.

- What would you like to say to our fans on the eve of the start of the spring part of the season?

- Just to thank them, because they have always supported us and never created any problems. From the coaching staff and the club, we are doing everything possible to help the players and to have more and more Ukrainians and academy graduates in the first team. The work we are doing today will bear fruit in a few years. The club is growing.

Media of FC "Kryvbas" Kryvyi Rih