Interviews after the 3-on-3 competition in Belarus

Interviews were taken following the 3-on-3 tournament at the President's Sporting Club Cup in Minsk, Belarus.

Russia U16 head coach Pavel Kanarsky:

- When playing 3-on-3, you get to look at the players' individual qualities. In the future, I think that this format will become even more popular. We need to learn how to play with speed, our guys are struggling to compete at a more senior level. We'll play against Belarus tomorrow in the concluding match of the 5-on-5 competition? We analysed their game with Kazakhstan. They have a well-drilled, organised side.

Russia U16 goalkeeper Vladimir Selivanov:

- It's a shame that we couldn't score our goals in the final against the Belarusians, we had enough chances. I really enjoy playing 3-on-3, it's a dynamic brand of ice hockey with plenty of scoring opportunities and odd-man rushes. We now have to prepare for our regular match against Belarus on Sunday.

Russia W head coach Alexander Zybin:

- We performed well in both matches. The guys tried their best, followed the game plan, but a finishing touch in front of goal was lacking. As you saw in the third place playoff, as soon as we began to gain momentum, the opponents immediately increased their urgency and took their game to another level. A lot depends on individual qualities when playing 3-on-3.

Russia W goalkeeper Valeria Merkusheva:

- It's a shame that we couldn't achieve positive results at this 3-on-3 competition, we conceded goals at bad times. Nonetheless, in comparison to our maiden game here in Minsk, we have subsequently been able to improve and add more speed to our approach. Naturally, male players are quicker and stronger than us.