More reaction after the World Challenge Cup U18 bronze medal win

Russia U18 forward Denis Mikhnin:

- We wanted to fight for gold. After losing to the USA, there was no way that it was going to be a defeat today. In the previous game, we were weaker physically and didn't take advantage of our goalscoring chances. It would have been awful to go home to our families without a medal, the fans and our parents woke up at five in the morning to watch these matches. When representing Russia, we should always win.

I played in my favourite position today. Other players deserved more ice time than me. The main thing is that we won. However, as an athlete, I want to play more. The coach told me what to work on. I will go back to my club and try to prove myself.

Russia U18 defenseman Nikita Okhotyuk:

- I was benched against Switzerland, deservedly so. The coaches gave me time to think about how to improve. It's nice that I was given a chance today, I am satisfied with the match. It's nice to hold a medal in my hands. Did my hit at the start of the game help me to settle into proceedings? Yes, I immediately felt more confident.

Russia U18 goalkeeper Daniil Yakovlev:

- Yesterday evening, I was told that I was going to play. It was tough after not making an appearance for almost a month. Andrei Malkov, the goalkeeping coach, told all three goaltenders that we have to be ready at any moment. The Czechs didn't shoot much today, it's always easier when the opponents have more shots on goal. I conceded a poor goal too, I have only myself to blame. Nevertheless, the main thing is that we won. 

I have healthy competition with Dimitriy Rayko. We tried to help each other out. Kirill Ustimenko assisted us too, he was always ready to take to the ice. This was my first tournament for the national team, it was a priceless experience playing against older players. I want to play even more.

Russian Ice Hockey Federation