Damir Shayakhmetov: «I would like to thank the coaching staff for the opportunity to play at this level»
20.11.2025
Reaktor goaltender Damir Shayakhmetov speaks with the media after a following 7–1 win over Snezhnye Barsy.
– Yesterday we had a bad first period. We have no right to go out like this, especially against the background of two defeats in Magnitogorsk and Ufa. We have to fight for all 60 minutes in every match. Before today's game, we sorted out the mistakes and played correctly from the first minutes. Overall, compared to yesterday's game, we played much better. I would like to thank the coaching staff for the opportunity to play at this level. Thanks to the guys who helped me get into the game. Congratulations on your victory!
– What are your emotions after the debut?
– Emotions are only positive! I have been waiting for this moment, realizing that such an opportunity could come at any second. So I was ready to make my debut. I think I have done all this work for a reason. But now the level is higher, so there are other requirements from me. I have to work even harder to bring as much benefit to the team as possible.
– There were thoughts that you would go on the ice during the game!
– When the opponent conceded the seventh goal, I knew that I could come out at any moment. Then there were still 12 minutes to play. I mentally prepared myself, kept myself in good shape. It does not take long for Anton Vitalievich Kislitsyn to give me the go–ahead. I started warming up, and during the break I went out on the ice.
– Summarize the results of the road trip.
– We should have handled this trip better. Unfortunately, it was not possible to win in Magnitogorsk and Ufa. We did not get off to a good start yesterday. I think it will be a lesson for us. We will work on the bugs.
– What are your emotions after the debut?
– Emotions are only positive! I have been waiting for this moment, realizing that such an opportunity could come at any second. So I was ready to make my debut. I think I have done all this work for a reason. But now the level is higher, so there are other requirements from me. I have to work even harder to bring as much benefit to the team as possible.
– There were thoughts that you would go on the ice during the game!
– When the opponent conceded the seventh goal, I knew that I could come out at any moment. Then there were still 12 minutes to play. I mentally prepared myself, kept myself in good shape. It does not take long for Anton Vitalievich Kislitsyn to give me the go–ahead. I started warming up, and during the break I went out on the ice.
– Summarize the results of the road trip.
– We should have handled this trip better. Unfortunately, it was not possible to win in Magnitogorsk and Ufa. We did not get off to a good start yesterday. I think it will be a lesson for us. We will work on the bugs.
