Alexei Zhamnov: "We will soon play against stronger opponents"

Alexei Zhamnov, the head coach of the ROC men's ice hockey team, shared his feelings with the media following the second match of the 2022 Olympic Games against Denmark (2:0).

Head coach Alexei Zhamnov:

- Overall, it wasn't a great performance. The players didn't follow the game plan in full. We asked the guys to be patient, because Denmark are good at making life difficult for opposing teams. We wanted the players to win the neutral pucks, fight hard and protect possession inside the attacking zone. Nothing was fully achieved today. Unfortunately, when you can't control the puck in attack, you are going to suffer counter-attacks against yourself. We spoke with the players after the match, and I think that they understand the situation. We have 24 hours before the Czechs to put things right.

Yes, we are lacking games, but all participating teams here are in the same boat. If the players follow the plan, we will be successful. Tougher games are ahead of us, the opponents will be stronger. We have to give credit to the Danes too, they compete in a quick, active manner.

- The first line hasn't recorded a single point yet.

- They are making too many passes, there isn't enough threat. Sometimes, they cannot unleash a final shot after making a nice play.

- How does Artur Kayumov feel after he received an injury?

- It's an upper body injury, the doctors are with him at the moment.

- Is Sergei Plotnikov ready?

- He will play in the next match.