Stanislav Upilkov, head coach of the Veres U19 team, summarized the challenging National League match against Kolos.
This is reported by Rivne24
The coach noted that the team started the match in a 4-3-3 tactical formation, intending to cede ball control to the opponent, but this strategy did not work. “The opponent successfully transitioned from defense to attack on the flanks. After conceding a goal, we restructured, and the players found it easier to create discomfort for the opponents,” he commented.
Upilkov pointed out that the team reacted somewhat sluggishly to the conceded goal; however, Stanislav Mihutsky had a chance to equalize in the first half. During the break, the coach had a discussion with the team, made adjustments, and increased the aggressiveness of the game. “The substitution of Vladislav Saichishin added speed and sharpness on the flank, which we were lacking. This allowed us to put pressure on Kolos’s defense,” he emphasized.
The second half, according to the coach, went significantly better, although towards the end of the game, the team maintained the score and simplified their play. “Holding a draw on such a difficult pitch is a great achievement, as Kolos is one of the leaders of the championship,” Upilkov added.
The coach also expressed gratitude to his team and coaching staff for their collaborative efforts. “It’s positive that we are heading home in good spirits to prepare for the next match,” he noted.
Regarding injuries, Upilkov mentioned that some players suffered from cramps, which resulted from alternating games on natural and artificial surfaces. “This is already the sixth match in a row, and unfortunately, half the team suffered from cramps today,” the coach concluded.