Dmitry Skopintsev: We got the taste of victories – it will be a bonus before the derby

— The game became tough. Nizhny Novgorod defended very well, and we could not break down their defense for a long time. The game went well at the end of the first half, when we took a penalty. Then it came easier, because the rival began to open out and we started playing our football.

— Did you see at the end of the first half that the defender played handball?

— It so happened that I took part in this attacking phase twice. At first Grulev made me an assist, but I didn't score. Then the defender cleared the ball back to me and I tried to cross. Everything was so close that I didn't even see that the defender played handball. It's good how it worked.

— In the second half, the team was more dangerous ahead and brought the match to a victory. What has changed after the break?

— We started playing in a more versatile way – both through the center and the wings. There were a lot of shots. In addition, the players who came out as substitutes, strengthened our play.

— Who would you like to face in the quarterfinals?

— I think it doesn't matter, because a strong team can be on our road at any stage.

— The team started the year with two 3:0 wins. Does this add more confidence before the match against Spartak?

— Yes, absolutely. Everyone got the taste of victory. We felt our pitch. I think this will be a bonus for us.