Volkan Bulut: The team played well in Sandro Schwarz’ absence

— We played a high-quality game. In the first half, the team was good at finding free zones that led to three goals. The second half turned out to be different. Lokomotiv, which played in front of their fans, ran forward and were able to come from behind. Of course, we are disappointed with the final score, but tomorrow we have to forget about it and start preparing for the Premier League final match. We want to come fully prepared to it.

— Can you say that the Sandro Schwarz’ absence became a crucial factor today?

— Of course, it would be better if Sandro was near the bench today. It is very important when the head coach guides the players from the sideline. But it should be noted that our team played well in his absence.

— If we do not take the Cup match against Alania into consideration, Dynamo concede a lot of goals in recent matches. What is the reason for this?

— At the final stage of the season, there are moments when the team concedes more goals than it should do. Of course, there are aspects that can be corrected in defense – we need to play more tenaciously. But now the result is very important, and we need to focus on it keeping the last two matches of the season in mind.

— Everyone is used to a very dynamic football performed by Dynamo, but today the team played in a rather calm way. What is the reason for this?

— I think that there were episodes in the second half when we quickly ran out to counterattacks and used speed. We also did it in the first half, when we scored three goals capitalizing on the opponents' mistakes. Unfortunately, the scenario of the first half was not repeated in the second.

— Fedor Smolov scored after Guilherme's big mistake. The Russian goalkeeper makes such mistakes not for the first time. Did you focus on this aspect before the match? Did you ask players putting pressure on Lokomotiv goalkeeper?

— Our players put pressure on the opponent's keeper not only today. Before every game we say that they should use every opportunity for pressure. And they need to put pressure not only on defensive players and goalkeepers, but also on midfielders.

— Lokomotiv won back twice today and were closer to claim a victory in the end. Why does the team start playing uncertainly after conceding goals, which affects the result?

— After the first half, Lokomotiv had nothing to lose. They sent all their forces ahead, and they have very skilled players in their roster. But I would not say that Lokomotiv were closer to a victory by the end, because we also had chances to tip the scales in our favor.