The forward of the youth team of Kyiv “Dynamo” and the author of two goals against Lviv “Karpaty U-19,” Matviy Ponomarenko shared his impressions of the home victory (2:0) over this team in the 18th round of the youth championship.
Matviy Ponomarenko— “Karpaty” is indeed a good team, with a good academy. We worked and prepared for this game all week because we knew the opponent would not be easy. The coach gave us instructions on what to do, and we went out on the field. Perhaps in the first game after the championship resumed, not everything went smoothly, but the main thing is that we have a victory. We will strive for improvement. Everything is ahead; we will do everything possible to win the championship again this season.
— Did the match against “Atalanta” in the UEFA Youth League already become history? Did that failure affect your mood for this match?
— No, it wasn’t difficult to adjust for this match. After “Atalanta,” of course, it was initially hard mentally, as we lost a match that I believe we should have won. It’s very disappointing, but we don’t stop, we move on. There is much to strive for.
— In the first round match, you also won 2:0, playing on natural grass, today it’s artificial. How did these matches differ?
— Of course, there is a difference. It’s better to play on natural grass, the ball doesn’t bounce as much, and it doesn’t get stuck as easily. Furthermore, the space in the arena is closed, and there is limited fresh air, so it was a bit harder. However, I believe there is no difference in where to play. The conditions are equal for both teams.
— Tell us about your double. Did you count how many opponents you managed to get past when you scored your second goal?
— No, I didn’t count. It just happened that way. I’m glad I scored. From the very beginning, I wanted to pass back, but then I went a bit to the flank, and everyone was shouting: “Pass it!” but I realized that I didn’t want to pass to anyone (smiling). I decided to try my luck and dribble past a few players, and it turned out that I scored.
— This is probably your best solo run?
— I think so.
— Regarding the first goal, you almost used the very first chance you had, so the finishing today didn’t let you down?
— No, but I think I could have scored more. Still, it’s good that I managed to score twice.
— With a score of 2:0, was it easier to enter the second half?
— Of course, it was easier; we played on counterattacks. And when you’re leading, it’s always easier to play.
— The fight for the championship continues. How do you feel psychologically in a situation where you need to catch up with “Shakhtar”?
— We go out for every game with the intention to win, so it makes no difference. I believe “Shakhtar” will lose points, and we will catch up with them. Of course, we are aiming for the championship — everyone is talking about it.
— Did you feel the support of the fans during the game?
— Of course, especially in the arena, where the space is closed, everyone can be heard well. It’s very nice that in such a difficult time, people come and watch the matches. Thank you all for the support. Thank you to the Armed Forces of Ukraine for allowing us to play during the war.
