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Winning was the only thing on our minds, says Russia's Mikhaylov
Russia has reason to celebrate, beating Serbia to open third round play.
Hamamatsu, Japan, November 27, 2011 - Russia opened the third round of the 2011 FIVB Men's World Cup on a high note with a strong performance over a young Serbian team on Sunday morning.
Russia coach Vladimir Alekno: In today’s game every player had a chance to get on court. I think it’s good that we took this match in three sets straight.
On Taras Khtey, and his previous hip problem: Yes, he had some pain but was taken care of and that’s why he could stand on the court today.
On tomorrow versus Argentina: Argentina is a young team, and the last time we faced them [in the FIVB World Championship] they played organized volleyball. But we will do our best against them tomorrow.
Russia captain Taras Khtey: Our team had good preparation for today, both mentally and physically, and that’s why we could win. In the last European Championships we were beaten by Serbia, so we did our best to win here today.
Russia player Maxim Mikhaylov: Because we knew they won against us in the European Championships, winning was the only thing on our minds today.
Serbia coach Igor Kolakovic: First of all I’d like to congratulate the Russian team. I hope they can go to the Olympic Games. Today we played our young players because as I said in the last press conference, we have lost any chance for the Olympics [top three finish], so it’s a good opportunity to play against a strong rival in Russia. Today they played perfectly, just some [minor mistakes]. Today we didn’t have an opportunity to put up a tough game.
On tomorrow versus Italy, and whether he would play young players again: We will see what happens. Today was a rest day for older players, but tomorrow we will see.
Serbia captain Ivan Miljkovic: Generally the only thing I can say is that this event will be good a experience for our young team. They had opportunity to play one of the strongest teams in world. I wish all the best and good luck to the russian team until the end of the competition.
On Serbia number 16, Aleksandar Atanasijevic: Of course he’s one of best young players in world, and he showed that in the World Championships this year. And I hope in the next Olympic Games that he shows all [his skills].
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