Shakhtar vs Atyrau: players’ reaction

19-02-15 21:32:13

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The Donetsk team players reflect on the game against the Kazakhs.

Wellington Nem, Shakhtar midfielder:

- This is my first meeting with the Kazakh team. And I'm glad that it ended in a win. I wouldn’t say that my assist is a set piece. But I wanted them to score following my delivery! Especially as it’s been quite difficult for us to readjust: firstly, we spent two and a half months without having any competitive games, then we had the match with Bayern, and now we play friendlies again. Of course, I want to adequately prepare for the league season, I want it to kick off shortly, looking forward to the encounter with Vorskla. Even if it’s cold! I've got used to the Ukrainian climate.

Taras Stepanenko, Shakhtar midfielder:

- Today, I have played for 90 minutes for the first time – I’m just fine. I kept myself in good shape all the time and trained. Of course, friendly matches is one thing, though the competitive games is quite another. Nevertheless, I feel prepared. It’s up to the coach to decide then. As for today's opponents – there are a pretty good team, playing some aggressive football, with a great selection of players. I heard their coach give them tips: both how to put pressure and how to make transitions from defence to attack – he is a very competent specialist.

Marlos, Shakhtar midfielder:

- Of course, it was hard to switch from the Champions League to a friendly game. After all, the pace of the game with Bayern was completely different! Especially as the match was one of the most important ones for us. Nevertheless, we’ve been working, getting ready for the first match of the league season’s spring part. Mister said that the meeting with Atyrau will be especially important for those players who had not appear in the encounter with Bayern. This is good preparation for the meeting with Vorskla for us.

FC Shakhtar
Press Office