Rustam Murzagaliyev: «The fans drove us forward»

On March 4th, 2023, the captain of Astana, Rustam Murzagaliyev, answered questions after the match with PARMA-PARI.

- The game went even, in principle. You can't come out to play in such a mood after a long break. After the first half, we had a 7-point advantage, but in the critical third quarter, we needed to implement the coach's plan, but we played poorly in defense and lost. This quarter gave the opponent an advantage; they took the initiative and started playing their best game, hence the result. We had a chance at the end, but, as the coach said, we didn't entirely implement the idea that was there. It's no doubt frustrating to lose by just one point. But we move on: on March 9th, we will play at home against Avtodor.

Thank you very much to the fans! Although there weren't many of them, in the end, they drove us forward, shouted, and were heard.

- Did the national team's away matches affect this game?

«That's part of our job. I wouldn't say it wasn't easy, but the difference in time zones, unfortunately, still affects the body. We must always be ready for games and training and do our job, despite all the obstacles.»

- The coaching staff recognized you as the MVP of the team for February.

- Of course, thank you, it's nice, but first and foremost, I want us to win. It doesn't matter who the best player is or who scores how many goals. We always want to succeed as a team. I hope that in the future, we will work hard, listen to the coach and follow his plan. Unfortunately, we have had problems with this throughout the season.

We have important games ahead in the VTB United League, the National League, and the West Asian Super League. We must achieve our goals and prepare for these crucial matches.