Three Russian referees in the bronze medal match of the 2022 Olympic Games

Russian referees Evgeny Romasko, Gleb Lazarev and Nikita Shalagin all shared their emotions after taking charge of the bronze medal match of the 2022 Olympic Games between Sweden and Slovakia (0:4) in Beijing, China.



Referee Evgeny Romasko:

- This was my first Olympic tournament, so my emotions were really special! I felt even more anticipation than when I worked over the World Championship final in Latvia. It was a very tense game between Sweden and Slovakia, neither side dominated the play. For us, we felt the extra responsibility, because we understood that any wrong decision could have a large bearing on the outcome of proceedings. I only intervened when it was absolutely necessary. Towards the end of the second period, it became clear that the Swedes were feeling somewhat tired.

I've known Gleb and Nikita for a long time, and I have also worked with Canadian referee Olivier Gouin at various competitions. We found it easy to cooperate together.



Linesman Gleb Lazarev:

- As a consequence of being given the opportunity to take charge of Olympic matches, I realised that my efforts are appreciated. You have to enjoy the moment, have fun and be a part of this fantastic event. In the bronze medal game, history was indeed created, as Slovakia finished on the podium for the first time. I tried my best, just as I always do in every match. Nevertheless, given that this was the Olympics, I appreciated the moment even more than usual. I can say that this really was a very special time in my life!



Linesman Nikita Shalagin:

- Taking charge of the bronze medal game was a wonderful experience! To be honest, we had hoped that we would be appointed for the grand final, but given that the Russian team was competing in that match, I can understand why we weren't given that game. We spoke as a group and agreed that the bronze medal match was going to be like a final for us, we appreciated the moment. I tried to enjoy and appreciate every second out there! I felt really tired after the first period, as the match required a lot of movement from our point of view. It was a pleasant fatigue, though. Personally, I thought that we worked over the game successfully, it was a match for an Olympic medal so we had a lot of responsibility.

When we travelled to Beijing, I set myself the goal of enjoying myself and appreciating the experience, regardless of the coronavirus restrictions and the consequent difficulties. Before every period I always made a heart shape with my arms, as this was the most popular gesture at this tournament. It was an unforgettable celebration of ice hockey! Furthermore, I felt good physically throughout the competition and coped with the demands.