Artyom Serikov: «I think that we deserved it»
10.03.2026
Neftekhimik defenseman Artyom Serikov speaks with the media after a following 2–1 overtime win over Traktor.
– I'm very happy that we got a win. First of all, this is my first KHL playoff. I'm very happy for the team. We couldn't make it for two years, and now, in the third year, we finally did it. I think that we deserved it. The fans deserved it, our families deserved it, and we'll keep working.– Will the following regular season games feel better emotionally after this win?
– It will definitely feel better; there's no pressure on us anymore; there's no longer any need to "climb higher or lower." We'll work on the remaining three regular season games while also preparing for the playoffs.
– What do we need to work on?
– There are many things to work on. We need to improve our defense and neutral zone play. In the offensive zone wwe are getting better and better. We need to work on our mistakes and be ready for playoffs both physicaly and mentally.
– After Belozyorov's goal, it seemed like the guys felt better.
– I agree, it was difficult without Andrei in the Far East road trip. It is great that he got back after injury and scored qutie important goal. In fact, everyone expected it from him; the team got a good emotional boost after that.
– What can you say about this game?
– The game ended in our favor; we knew we needed one point, so we decided to get two. We decided not to rely on anyone, but to take the win and advance to the playoffs.
– The fans' support was incredible. What can you say about Neftekhimik's fans?
– Dear fans, thank you for your support! We hear how you cheer for us. Sometimes there are good comments, sometimes bad ones. Anything can happen. Keep rooting for us, we'll try to make you happy. Come to the playoff games! I hope everything goes well for us.
