Ivan Kovalyov: «We are a close–knit team»

Neftekhimik defenseman Ivan Kovalyov speaks with the media after a following 4–3 overtime win against Lada.

– I was very glad to return to the KHL, there was a long pause. It is great that the team won in my debut game. Overall, the guys are great here. We are a close–knit team.

– Did you have similar kind of game like today’s?

– This is the first time in my life. We tied the game up 2–2. If we talk about getting a win in overtime with one second left – this is definitely for the first time.

– The last time you played in the KHL is 2020–2021 season. What kind of changes did you notice?

– The funny thing is that the last KHL game before today’s one I played against Neftekhimik. At that time, I was part of Lokomotiv team. In terms of the game, I have not noticed any big changes over these three years. Sure, the level of speed here is higher.

– Have you previously crossed paths with anyone from Neftekhimik on the same team?

– I only know Misha Sidorov, because he is from Yaroslavl.

– Neftekhimik have back–to–back games. Is it hard?

– I had back–to–back games only in the JHL. For me, this is a first time at the KHL level. I feel great, ready to play.