Joseph Jones: Petrakov demands hard work, but at the same time, he constantly supports us

Joseph Jones, the Panamanian defender for Kryvbas Kryvyi Rih, discusses preparations for the Ukrainian Cup Round of 16 away match against Zorya Luhansk.

- How are preparations for the Cup match against Zorya going, and what is the team focusing on right now?

- It has been two days since our last match, and there are only two days left until the next one, so we have very little time to prepare. The main priority right now is proper recovery, ensuring we reach the next game in optimal physical condition and are ready to face our opponent.

- How important is it to recover well given such a tight schedule, so that you can approach the match in peak physical condition?

- Every match is crucial - whether in the Ukrainian Cup or the league championship. We always strive to win, keep moving forward, and secure three points in every league round to stay in the hunt for our goals. So, regarding recovery, everything will be fine.

- What are your expectations for the upcoming clash, and what needs to be done to replicate the victory you achieved earlier this season?

- Zorya is a very good team. We’ve already faced them in the league and managed to win, but this will be a completely different match - a new challenge in the Cup. It’s a knockout tie where everything comes down to a single game. We respect our opponent, but we will do everything in our power to win again.

- A new head coach, Oleksandr Petrakov, has joined the team. How is the adaptation to his requirements going, and what are the key areas he emphasizes during training sessions?

- Everything is going very well. He fits into the team perfectly; he demands that we work hard, give our absolute best in every match, and constantly improve. At the same time, he always supports us, regardless of the result - and that is very important for the team.

Media of FC "Kryvbas" Kryvyi Rih