Ivan Lytvynenko: "This is a predictable draw"

The midfielder of "Metalist 1925" Ivan Lytvynenko shared his impressions of the game with UPL.TB, talked about the high level of emotions during the match, and the team's mindset for the upcoming games:

— Ivan, judging by the players' emotions, the 0:0 score in Kovalivka is not the result your team was hoping for today. Where did you fall short against the opponent today? Were you closer to victory?

— I think it was a draw, a very intense and manly game. You know, it's always tough against this opponent. Always tough because they are a very strong team, and I believe this draw was inevitable. There were moments where they could have pushed harder, and we could have done more, but overall, I think the result was fair. Of course, we wanted to win. Our goal is to win every game. I think every team goes out there wanting to win. But today there is a positive for us - we didn't concede a goal, so we didn't lose. We move on. One point is still a point.

— The emotions after the final whistle. We see that this manly battle even extended to the coaches, to the players on the bench.

— Yes, of course, the red card added more emotions. I don't know what the conflict was about, but there were emotions among us, but after the game, everyone shook hands, there's nothing serious there. But you understand - it's sports, and everyone wants to win.

— Well, after Kaliuzhnyi received the first yellow card, the opponents started playing more aggressively in the center of the field, and it was approaching that peak moment where maybe red cards would be shown.

— Yes, of course, there was a tough battle in the center, it wasn't easy. I don't think Vania's yellow card contributed to that. I think it was just the nature of the game. I don't believe that Vania's second foul 70 meters from our goal deserved a yellow card, you know? Vania is an important player for us, and now he's missing the game against "Dynamo." I understand that it's because of the red card, but he would have missed it anyway. And getting a yellow card for the second foul - of course, it raises emotions. As for Vania, maybe it affected him somehow, but I think it's the referee's decision. It was a tough game, a game between two very good, almost equal opponents. We gave our all for the win, but not today...

— Ahead of "Metalist 1925," a very responsible month lies ahead. You have a total of six matches planned. What is your mindset going into this crucial stage of the season? The Ukrainian Cup semifinal, the rescheduled match with "Veres," and very serious opponents coming up in the calendar.

— Yes, it will be interesting, definitely challenging, but we have no choice. I think this is the football thrill when you have games every two to three days. We all aspire to play where people play in European competitions, where people play in cups. So, for us, this is also a test, but we approach it with strength, we are ready for it, and we hope to get the most out of it.