Sport Arena, together with the PFL, is naming the hero of the next round in the Second League. In the 30th round it was Druzhba midfielder Andrey Storchous – the author of the champion goal
Friendship had a significant advantage over competitors – if YuKSA and PFC Zvyagel finished the regular season in the penultimate round, then Druzhba played in Stryi and could overtake both competitors on the last turn. To do this, it was necessary to win against the Rock, and this is not easy. The Stryi team gave battle to all the leaders, and beat the Mirov team in the first round in Kagarlyk.
Right up to the endgame the scoreboard remained zero, but Storchous’s entry changed everything. The experienced midfielder scored the winning goal, which, of course, made him the hero of the tour. With gold medals and a great mood, our laureate spoke about the final match of the season and promotion.
Exclusively for the Sport Arena website, the best player of the 30th round of the Second League, Andrei Storchous, shared his impressions of the gold awards, recalled his first steps in football, and also talked about young Dovbik.
– How pleasant and important is it for you to be recognized by the PFL and Sport Arena as the best player of the tour in the Second League?
– I thank all the authoritative specialists who noted me. It’s nice that I took part in the team’s victory in the decisive match of the season. Let’s move forward to new goals!
– Friendship in Stryi was only satisfied with victory in order to win the championship. How much pressure did this put on the team psychologically?
“We understood that only victory would suit us.” We went out to the game with maximum responsibility and spirit. Of course, we were worried, realizing that we had no right to lose points.
– What happened to the team in the match with Rukh-2, when they played at home 1:1, leading in the score? What conclusions did you draw from this confrontation?
“Unfortunately, we didn’t convert our chances and ended up in a draw. In addition, they missed an unnecessary goal. We understood that in the last game we could not lose any points, so it was important to approach each episode with maximum responsibility.
– What did the coaching staff focus on before the game? Did you understand that it would be very difficult against Skala 1911 on the road? This team created difficulties for literally all championship contenders…
– The team from Stryi knows how to force a fight on every opponent. This is a strong team, so we understood that it would not be easy. During theoretical classes, we analyzed the strengths and weaknesses of Skala 1911. It’s good that we were able to put the squeeze on our opponent.
– It was very difficult for your team in the first half hour. Perhaps it was the excitement that was taking its toll?
– The game was nervous, both teams played to win. At first we felt nervous, but gradually we were able to calm down and began to play our own football. It was difficult to watch such a nervous game from the bench; I wanted to come out quickly and help the team.
– After the break, you entered the field. What did he demand of you as a head coach?
– It was necessary to constantly run into free zones, go for the ball and keep the defenders on their toes. I waited and implemented it in due time. I understood that I would find my chance. It’s great that this happened!
– In the 70th minute, after Nedoli’s cross, you headed the ball into the net. Remember this episode?
– It’s worth noting Artem’s excellent pass. All I had to do was get ahead of the defender and send the ball into the net. This is a very important goal in my career, so I was filled with incredible emotions. All goals are important, but this one is special.
– Friendship retained its victory due to experience and class. What happened after the final whistle?
– After the game there were a lot of emotions, everyone celebrated the historical achievement. Our club has been working towards this championship for a long time. There were victories and defeats, but we were still able to achieve our goal. Proud of our club, of our team. Thanks to the Ukrainian Armed Forces for giving me the opportunity to play football.
– Why, in your opinion, did Druzhba manage to win the Second League? Your team did not have the most stellar lineup…
– First of all, it is worth mentioning our team. By following coaching guidelines, discipline and character, we were able to achieve results. Friendship is famous for team play. One for all and all for one!
– While playing in the amateur championship for Zorya (Bilozirye), you received a call to the youth team. They must have been shocked then? What do you remember from the match against Cherkasy Dnieper?
– I was pleasantly surprised. To be honest, I didn’t even immediately believe that I was being called up to the youth team. Many fans and friends came to the match. These are incredible emotions that will be remembered for a lifetime. This is why we love football.
– Do you remember your first steps in football? Which coaches have influenced your career the most?
– I started playing football in Cherkassy. My dad played at the amateur level and often took him with him to matches. I then realized that I liked football. My father took me to train with coaches Stolovitsky and Usakovsky. I want to thank them for playing a significant role in my career.
He began his professional career in Cherkassy Dnieper. Then there was a team that fought for the highest places. There was significant competition for a starting spot, so I received little match practice. They offered to go on rent to Kremin and I agreed. I think I made the right decision. There were many positive aspects. Kremny’s entry into the First League is an unforgettable emotion.
– What worked and didn’t work for you at LNZ? Was this a more serious level?
– It was a productive period in my career. It’s very nice to play in your hometown in front of your home fans. I gained a lot of experience that will help me in the future. There have been significant changes in the club, many newcomers have come. We shook hands with the club management and thanked them for their cooperation.
– Remember your performances with young Dovbik. Did they already understand that these were Ukrainian football stars?
– It was noticeable that this football player had incredible potential and would be able to realize himself in the future. I would like to congratulate Artem on an incredible season and wish him good luck. With his daily work, he has grown to the level of the top scorer of Examples, as well as the level of the Ukrainian national team.
– Who suggested joining Friendship? Did you understand that this is a club with ambitions?
– Received an offer from former LNZ players Doronin and Listopad. Then Dmitry Chirikal called on the phone. After a conversation with him, I agreed to the offer to sign a contract with Druzhba.
– What tasks do you set for yourself for the near future?
– Now I want to rest a little, and then we will prepare for the new season. We will play in the First League, so there is a lot of work ahead.
BLITZ
- Born in Cherkasy
- Pupil – Dnepr-80 (Cherkasy)
- The first trainers were Igor Mikhailovich Stolovitsky and Sergei Alexandrovich Usakovsky
- Favorite club – Girona
- Favorite player: Toni Kroos
- Goal in football? I’m trying to reach the UPL together with Druzhba
Yaroslav Krokha
Source: Sportarena
I’m Scott Moore, a professional writer and journalist based in the US. I’ve been writing for various publications for over 8 years now, and have been working as an author at athletistic for the past five years. My work has been featured by some of the leading sports websites and magazines across Europe.
