Reaction after the ALROSA Cup victory against Austria

Russian Olympic team forward Vitaly Kravtsov:

- Despite this being the third consecutive match, it wasn't too difficult for us physically. We had lots of emotions and we played to win. I think that Austria are a strong team, but all of our guys understood that we had to win the competition, especially because we were playing at home. We all support each other within the team. There was a fantastic atmosphere at the Yubileyny Arena, but the fans are always better in Chelyabinsk! Andrei Altybarmakyan and Mikhail Maltsev, two Saint Petersburg stars, helped strengthen our team. They understand each other well.

Russian Olympic team forward Mikhail Maltsev:

- I always have positive emotions when playing for the national team, it was nice to finish the season on a high note. There was no problem in finding mutual understanding with Oleg Li, he has played in the KHL during his career. Immediately after the VHL final, I was told that I was going to play in this match today, so I went to the hotel feeling very tired and not in the best shape. Nevertheless, it was great to be called up to the Olympic national team for the first time. I knew a lot of the guys here.

Russian Olympic team forward Andrei Altybarmakyan:

- Mikhail Maltsev did a great job after I gave him my pass, he is a clever player and we know each other really well. We got lucky that two products of the Saint Petersburg ice hockey system scored the winning goal at a tournament in this city. This was the most full-on season in my career so far, I played in the KHL, MHL and VHL. Overall, I think that I have made a step forward.

Russian Ice Hockey Federation