Patrick van Leeuwen: We may have lost a few points, but we gained a lot in terms of character

Head coach of Kryvyi Rih Kryvbas Patrick van Leeuwen commented on the home match of the 3rd round of the UPL against Kyiv's Livyi Bereh - 1:1.

- Patrick, how do you assess today's match and this result?

- I think we were very motivated to play at home. We managed to score the first goal before the break, but I think we should have scored the second one too - there were moments for that. At the beginning of the second half, we may have lost our concentration a bit again. After such a long break, the team started well in general, but it was not enough to score. Then we got a red card. However, after that the team showed character and tried to fight for every meter of the field.

- The team was leading. What, in your opinion, was not enough to keep the victory?

- At the end, the opponent scored, and Kemkin saved us in several episodes thanks to fantastic actions. Therefore, I am satisfied with the result. We may have lost a few points, but we gained a lot in terms of character. The guys fought for each other until the very end. They should have scored more in the first half, and after the break, they could have acted more intelligently in some moments.

- How satisfied are you with the team's performance in general?

- I am very satisfied with the team's spirit. Even with ten men, we continued to press the ball. Of course, I would have liked to see more goals from our side, but the guys worked hard and fought for a positive result.

- Rivas scored right away in his debut match. How would you rate his first appearance for Kryvbas?

- We knew that Yakson Rivas had specific qualities - speed and a good shot. That's what we expected. At the same time, we hoped that he would be better prepared physically, especially in the second half. We still need to work on that.

- How would you comment on Borges' sending off?

- As for Thiago Borges, I think he should learn a lesson from this situation. In my opinion, he didn't react quite correctly. There was enough space there, so it was better to act more cunningly: not to attack the opponent so high, but to continue to pursue him.

- What needs to be improved before the next game?

- We want to continue working with the same intensity that our players are showing. But at the same time we need to become smarter on the pitch and learn to control the ball a little longer.

Media of FC "Kryvbas" Kryvyi Rih