BATE coach Alexander Ermakovich told about the preparation of the team for the return match of the play-off round of the Europa League against Alexandria.
Alexander Ermakovich realizes the difficulties of the situation in which his team is located, but hopes for a positive result.
- Who are you going to bet on new players, or those who played against Alexandria in Borisov?.
- On those who participated in the first game. Then they did not show what they are capable of, but now they must speak at their level.
- Why did not Kendysh come?.
- Because we are counting on those who were taken to the return match.
- How difficult was it to get to Alexandria? How are you feeling? What are you going to conquer the local audience?.
- It was not easy. First the flight, then two and a half hours went by bus. Not the best option, but we accept what is, and in no case will not be looking for in difficulties of justification. We believe in ourselves, we believe in ourselves and we are going to demonstrate beautiful football. I would like to take this opportunity to congratulate all of you on the Independence Day of Ukraine, and I promise that regardless of the outcome, football will be beautiful.
- Has your opinion on the opponent changed after the first match?.
- No, Alexandria played as we expected, but we could not play in our strength. Everyone understands that the team that competes in the Ukrainian championship with Shakhtar and Dynamo, obtains permits in European cups, can not be weak.
- The score after the first match is not in your favor ... Yes, 1: 1 - the result is more beneficial to the guests. But nothing is lost. We will try to play better than at home.
- BATE now criticizes a lot. How do you cope with pressure?.
- I try not to read the press.
But seriously, we have been under high pressure for many years, so the guys are used to it. Now the pressure is a little stronger, because we are used to seeing only in the first place in the Belarusian championship, but this does not unsettle us.
- Who would you single out as part of Alexandria?.
- This is a very smooth team with virtually no weaknesses. Before the first match, I singled out Gritsuk, now I can add to him Tsurikov and Sitalo.
The match Alexandria - BATE will be held on August 24 at 20:00.