Andrey Vorontsevich: "Our defensive communication has improved significantly"
Zenit forward Andrey Vorontsevich shared his expectations for the home game against Lokomotiv Kuban. The player noted the blue-whites' progress in the first part of the season and discussed the strengths of the Krasnodar team. The game will take place on January 11 in St. Petersburg at the CSC Arena. The match starts at 15:30 local time. Tickets are available at tickets.bc-zenit.com.
— How well have you recovered after two away games? In what condition are you approaching the game against Lokomotiv?
— We’re approaching the game against Lokomotiv in normal condition. Of course, the schedule is tight, but that’s our job. We’re preparing for tomorrow’s match. In fact, we analyzed the opponent yesterday and today. So, we know their strengths and weaknesses. Overall, we’re getting ready.
— At the start of the season, Zenit lost to Krasnodar at home, even though you started strong and controlled the game. How much has Zenit’s game changed since then?
— I’m confident that we’ve become more united, we’ve started playing more as a team, sharing the ball with each other, and, naturally, our defensive communication has improved significantly.
— What do you see as the opponent’s strengths?
— First and foremost, their energy, their fast breaks, and their defense, especially their pressing, which works very well to force opponents into mistakes. And, of course, they have a solid and well-balanced roster, and I can say they’re a good team. A serious opponent, and we’re preparing for a tough match.
— Most of the regular season is behind you. Are you personally satisfied with your performance in the first part of the season?
— I can only be satisfied with my performance if my team achieves certain results. I believe we’re playing well at this stage of the season. Still, we always understand that we need to aim higher. That’s what we’re doing. As one of the more experienced players, I’m trying to give my all to ensure we play better team basketball. And I think we’re achieving that game by game. Naturally, I’m doing everything I can both on and off the court. So, being satisfied is something for the end of the season. Right now, it’s all about the process, and I think we’re growing well.
