Patrick van Leeuwen: We still lack experience, especially in crucial moments
The head coach of Kryvyi Rih Kryvbas Patrick van Leeuwen commented on the home match of the 5th round of the UPL against Kolos from Kovalev - 2:2.
- Patrick, how would you rate today's game as a whole and the first half?
- I think we played well in the first half. We tried to get into the game right away, scored a goal, but at the same time we conceded after an episode with a handball. In my opinion, this goal should not have been counted. I don't understand why we need VAR if at such moments they don't notice an obvious violation.
- After the score was 1:1, our team took the lead again. What was not enough to keep the victory?
- With the score at 1:1, we scored the second goal, but then everyone saw how the opponent made a long pass at the end of the game. Our two central defenders were not ready enough to win this duel, and the goalkeeper should also have reacted better to the situation. I think these three players should analyze this episode in detail, because it was because of it that we lost the victory in the last minute.
- Why, in your opinion, is it difficult for the team to control the game throughout the match?
- Yes, I don’t think that we can simply control the game throughout the match now. We need to continue playing, move the ball forward, create chances and use our opportunities.
- What exactly was the team lacking today at the crucial moment?
- We lack experience, especially in crucial moments. When we are leading and there are only a few minutes left, we need to act more maturely and pragmatically. This experience only comes with matches. I hope we will draw the right conclusions from this game.
- Did fatigue affect the team's actions at the end of the match?
- We still created chances, but it was clear that the players who started the match were tired. At some point we needed to play easier. I can't blame the players for wanting to continue playing football, but in the last seconds we lacked concentration.
- The team has a cup match ahead. How do you plan to recover and prepare for a busy week?
- Tomorrow we recover and start preparing for the next game. Then we will return to the championship. We have a busy week ahead of us with several hours of travel, so the most important thing now is to recover well and be ready for the next matches.
- Patrick, today's match was dedicated to two of our Ultras - Semen Smishnyi and Lokha Pont, defenders of Ukraine who are currently in Russian captivity. How important is it to draw attention to this situation?
- Regarding today's action - given the seriousness of the situation, we must definitely draw attention to it. Especially when it comes to our Ultras, who are currently defending Ukraine and are in Russian captivity. This is extremely important for us. We must remember them, talk about them and do everything possible to make as many people as possible aware of this situation. They must not be forgotten.
Media of FC "Kryvbas" Kryvyi Rih