Valentin Zykov: It was unpleasant to lose in such a game

Baie-Comeau Drakkar and U20 Junior team forward Valetin Zykov about the first game with Quebec team:

- We realized how Canadians would play. In the beginning of the game they run forward and try to score as fast as possible in order to secure advantage. We managed to hold out and then it was an equal game with mutual chances. It’s a pity that we missed such a decisive goal. It didn’t come out of the game all the more so in the third period we had some good moments for realization. It’s a pity that we lost this game.

Boys performing in Canada didn’t have opportunity to play together. We play in Quebec League in one team with Denis Gorbunov that’s why it was easier for us to adapt. What’s more, Barbashev playing style is well-known. We spoke to each other before the game and discussed some moments. Head Coach asked us to leave opponents back to spare ice by fast pass.

I understand that I have only two games to prove my right for getting to the World Championship. I feel kind of pressure but I’m going to put out all my strengths to deserve National team coaching staff trust.