Mladen Bartulovich: "We had to win this match"

Comment from the head coach of "Metalist 1925" Mladen Bartulovich after the match against "Karpaty":

— In the first half, we completely deserved to be leading. We should have closed the match before the break, as we created enough chances. Unfortunately, the start of the second half didn't go well - we conceded two unnecessary goals. Then we had to save the game, we quickly equalized. I believe we had opportunities to press the opponent and win. It's very disappointing to drop points - this is the second match in a row, after the game with "Zorya", where we also conceded at the end. We are losing very important points for the standings. We should have won this match.

— Castillo gave two assists today. How do you rate his performance and why did he get less playing time before?

— All foreign players go through an adaptation process. He joined us in winter not in optimal condition, so he needed time to get used to our training and the intensity of football. Now, at the end of the season, he has gained good momentum. We are very happy to have such a player - he is not afraid to take the game on himself. We need players like him who can make a difference and deliver results. We are pleased with his progress, and if he continues to work like this, he will get even more playing time.

— How did Arevale's injury at the beginning of the game affect your game plan?

— Of course, such a forced substitution affects the game and our plans. It made adjustments. But, according to the preliminary information, he is fine.

— How do you assess the referee's decisions in the match?

— They watch VAR for 8 minutes, but only compensate for 7, even though there were all substitutions for us and the opponents. I don't want to say much about the referees.

— What are the team's goals for the next matches?

— The goal is simple - to win. We approach every match with a winning mentality, as we did today. We have the next game ahead, little time to prepare, we will prepare and move on.