The head coach of “Epicenter” from Kamyanets-Podilskyi, Sergey Nagornyak, commented on the exit of his team to the UPL following the results of the current season and assessed the prospects of its performance in the elite division.
Sergey Nagornyak. Photo — FC “Epicenter”— Before the start of the season, who did you consider the main competitor of “Epicenter”?
— First of all, “Metalist 1925”. They were relegated from the UPL, so they wanted to return to the top league immediately. This team has ambitions. Of course, there is also “Bukovina”, which has a new investor now.
— Who surprised you during the season?
— In principle, everything was predictable; all those who wanted it reached the championship group. Perhaps, I expected more from “Victoria”. “Metalist” performed well and I believe they rightfully belong in the group of the strongest.
— Did the club management set the task of reaching the Premier League?
— Categorically, no. They said: “Try”. The attempt was successful. (Smiles).
— What did you think about this?
— I didn’t look far ahead; I tried to go from match to match. Our first priority was to reach the championship group. But, as they say, appetite comes with eating.
— To perform so steadily, a sustainable financial position is necessary. Is everything fine with this in “Epicenter”?
— Everything that was declared by the leaders has been fulfilled. We are clear on this matter. I have been working here for almost four years, so I can say that everyone should have such leaders.
— There are still three rounds ahead. What tasks will you set for yourself and the team?
— To win in each of the remaining matches. Even though we have fulfilled our task, we have three finals ahead. The fight for promotion to the UPL continues, so we do not want to slow down anywhere; everything should be decided in fair competition.
— Will the motivation be enough for the players?
— I will give it to them.
— How much does the current composition of “Epicenter” meet the requirements of the Premier League?
— For now, it’s difficult to say. We will finish the season and then we will decide.
— But reinforcement is necessary, right?
— Certainly. But what kind it will be, we will decide in the off-season.
— In terms of financial conditions, can “Epicenter” invite players who have experience in the UPL to their team?
— It is still early to talk about this because the budget may increase.
— There has been a lot of talk about the stadium in Kamyanets-Podilskyi. Will it be able to meet the UPL requirements?
— I do not understand these technical nuances, but the fact that Epicenter really wants to play at home is true. We will believe and hope that everything will be fine.
Sergey BOYCHENKO
