After a final minute 1-0 loss to FK Žalgiris, DFK Dainava head coach Sergej Kuznecov, nevertheless, praised his team for showing character.
One of the more dramatic matches of A Lyga Matchday 4 was Dainava’s 99th minute 1-0 loss to FK Žalgiris at home. Well supported by their loyal and vocal fans, Dainava held defending champions to a goalless draw until the very last action of the game, when Yury Kendysh managed to score the decisive goal.
Dainava’s head coach, Sergej Kuznecov, reflected on the course of the game:
We tried to be disciplined and organised in defense and to find good opportunities in attack. Sometimes we defended well and other times no but today we played against the best team in our country and we showed quality. It was difficult for us but we could check where we are relative to them right now.
In terms of moving forward, Kuznecov highlighted concerns over ongoing issues with motivation but noted that he was much happier with what he saw from his team today:
Today, first of all, we showed character. Last time we lacked motivation. Why? Previous three season were very successful for our club, especially the last one. I think we lost a little bit of motivation because of that. We were neither hungry nor angry. But today I saw a good, motivated team with character. We are anticipating a difficult season and only by displaying such character can we assure good results.
Dainava are back in action on Friday as they take on regional rivals and current A Lyga leaders – FK Sūduva at 19:30 local time.