The head coach of Kyiv’s Dynamo, Oleksandr Shovkovskyi, commented live on the draw with Metalist 1925 (1:1) in the match of the 8th round of the Ukrainian championship.
Oleksandr Shovkovskyi— The team drew for the fourth time in the Ukrainian championship today, controlled the initiative, and had many chances. How did you see this match, what are your impressions of your team’s performance?
— First of all, we undoubtedly did not capitalize on the chances we had. In the episode with the conceded goal, we made a mistake. Our two defensive midfielders needed to play more reliably: one was drawn out, leaving a player behind him, and the other didn’t manage to block. In the end, they shot at us from 16 meters, even closer, and there was no one near.
— Another injury in the team: Bilyi said after the first half that he strained his groin. Is this an unfortunate coincidence, or are there other explanations for these situations?
— I see that our players are getting injured — this happens in football. I hope that he will start working again soon. As for Taras, we allowed him to rest because, in my opinion, he had a concussion. Although the examination showed that he was ready to play, he had certain sensations during the training, and we couldn’t risk the player.
— Yarmolenko was not even on the squad today. Is everything alright with him?
— You need to ask Yarmolenko, because he said that he had some problems and left the team’s camp.
— If possible, one more question about the central defenders. Zakharchenko debuted today. How do you evaluate his debut in such a difficult situation, at a critical moment for the team?
— First of all, I must say that there are entirely different levels — playing in U-19 and in the Ukrainian Premier League. Everything here is much faster. We are involving young players, giving them the opportunity to train with the first team, go through training camps, so they understand how much higher the demands are. Unfortunately, not every player is ready to feel comfortable under pressure when there’s less space and time to make decisions. This transition is not easy.
That’s why we allowed Salenko to go on loan — he had little playing time, and it’s better for him to play and gain experience. When he returns, he will be stronger and ready to compete. I think everyone saw that Zakharchenko has certain qualities, but there’s still a lot to work on.
— You mentioned the episode with the conceded goal and emphasized the problem of the defensive midfielders. This refers to Mykhailenko. Was this match more positive or negative for him?
— I don’t want to single anyone out — positively or negatively. The team should be evaluated based on the result. The players are undoubtedly responsible for the quality of their game. We talked before the game that the puzzle consists of all the little pieces — both in defense and attack.
— In the second half, you substituted Buialskyi — one of the best players in the first half. What caused this substitution?
— Playing with the ball is always pleasant, but football is played not only with the ball.
