ROBERT ARZUMANYAN: "WE WILL TRY TO IMPROVE"

Our team's head coach spoke about the match.
First of all, I'd like to congratulate Ararat-Armenia on their success so far. I wish them continued success in Europe as well. They have a very good team, and I also congratulate them on today's victory.

I think that in the first half we gradually took control of the game and, by the end of the half, we were dictating the rhythm. We had a very good first half. In the second half, however, Ararat-Armenia controlled the tempo much more. Physically they were probably superior to us, and they also strengthened the team through their substitutions, whereas for us it was the opposite today. The difference in preparation between the two teams was noticeable. We'll try to improve.

– As a coach, what do you like about Tulipa's work?

He's a good coach and he has a good team. I don't want to go into more detail. We're competing in the same league.

– You didn't seem to have much depth on the bench in the second half.

Against Pyunik, the substitutes who came on strengthened the team, but this time it didn't work out. Every game is different. Our team is capable of playing much better. If we improve our style of play, we can perform at a higher level, and that's what we're striving for.

I'm always satisfied with the squad. Today it just didn't work out. Even at 1-1 we had a good opportunity, but instead of scoring from that attack, we conceded a goal. We have what we have.

– Does Petik Manukyan remind you of yourself as a player?

I can't really say. Others can compare us if they want. He's a footballer with very good potential. We're working on improving his game on the ball. He's capable of developing further and could become a top-class defender in the future. It's difficult for me to compare him to myself.

– He seemed more relaxed when he was at BKMA.

Actually, it's the opposite. He's simply in a new environment now, with foreign players, teammates of different ages and levels, and different demands in training. He's moved from a younger team to a more mature one. Perhaps it's the sense of responsibility. I wouldn't say he's under pressure.

– There was a move today that led to the shot off the crossbar. It looked like it could become one of the best combinations of the season.

I don't know—we'll see. It was an interesting attacking move. In the previous match, too, our second attacking sequence was built with a lot of patience.

– There were recent reports that Hamlet Sargsyan had returned to Urartu. Is he still on loan at BKMA, or is he your player?

No, he's not an Urartu player.

– This season?

He's only just recovering from an injury.

– Zhirayr Margaryan also seems to be injured. How long will he be out?

I can't say for sure. Arman has already returned, and hopefully Zhirayr will recover as well and help the team.

– Khariton has mainly been playing in his position. Had you planned for Khariton to be the starter?

We certainly hadn't planned for anyone to get injured.