Russia's players speak after defeating Latvia

Sergei Shirokov, forward:

- We didn't have the right to play badly. All of the guys gave their all until the final buzzer. Our discipline let us down a bit, twice we played three on five, but on the penalty kill we played great. I am glad that we have given our veterans this victory. The key moments were our quick two goals in the second period, and our penalty killing.

Sergei Kalinin, forward:

- We're in a great mood after the game. It was very important for us to win, especially taking into account that it's Victory Day. The team did a good job, and we did well on special teams. Sergei Bobrovsky saved us when needed. With it being Victory Day, we had extra stimulus to win, and for me personally it was a surprise to see a full Ice Palace for a game with Latvia. The fans' support gave us extra energy on the ice. We have to keep improving every game. The tournament is long, but on the other hand, there are only four matches left in the group stage. We need to get better and take advantage of our scoring chances.

Sergei Bobrovsky, goaltender:

- This was an important day for Russia, and there was a special atmosphere in the dressing room. Everyone tried their best, and we are happy with the result. When you play a team game, everyone supports each other. Nevertheless, this game is behind us, and we have to move on and prove ourselves in the next one. We're moving towards the playoffs.

Ivan Telegin, forward:

- In my opinion, the team performed well. The previous two games weren't great, but today we displayed great hockey. We should play like this all the time. Everyone knew how important this day was, and we gave it 200 and 300 percent. The main thing is that we didn't let the Latvians score, and Sergei Bobrovsky was on his game when we were two men down. The supporters were great too, they were our sixth player!

Russian Ice Hockey Federation