The team’s press officer, Fanourios Konstantinou, speaking to SPOR FM 95.
He highlighted the composure shown by the “blue” team after the equalizer, despite the fact that they did not put in their best performance, while he emphasized that the many absences in recent matches affected the team’s cohesion and rhythm.
ΣΧΕΤΙΚΑ ΑΡΘΡΑ
At the same time, he expressed his confidence that the Limassol team will return to their high competitive standards.
Finally, he also mentioned the need for Asoro and Ugbo to adjust, regarding the playing time for players returning from injuries, as well as the upcoming difficult match against Nea Salamina (October 17, 7:00 p.m.).
In detail: “We’re taking the three points, the composure we showed, and the clear-headedness we maintained when things got tough—after Ypsona’s team equalized and especially as time ran out. The team didn’t panic; it stuck to its game plan. We faced a team with a new coach that put in its best performance and was tactically flawless. We weren’t at our best, but we fought hard, and we deserved the victory. No one looks at it game by game. There will be losses for us and for the other teams. The key is to minimize them. That’s the essence of championship play.”
On the playing time for Brown, Gaspar, and Ozbold: “Those three players were able to get that much playing time. This plan was drawn up in consultation with the medical staff. These players—if we include Brandon (Thomas) and Gaetan (Weisbeck)—have, first and foremost, lost their rhythm, just like the rest of the team. It will come back with time, and we’re looking forward to the match against Nea Salamina next round.”
Regarding Gary Rodrigues: “He and two or three others haven’t been affected by the situation. However, we are absolutely convinced that Apollon will regain its rhythm to continue its winning streak.”
On Asoro and Ugbo: “I’ll agree that we expect more from some players, and they’ll take the time they need to adapt better. They arrived at the last minute; we had the break during which they trained with the team, they played in a few games, and gradually Mr. Losada will give them the time they need to integrate and contribute more.”
Regarding the planning, who was responsible: “The planning was done by Makis Papaioannou together with Losada. However, no player is signed without the final approval of Mr. Losada or the current head coach.”
On the players’ status: “Spoljaric is closer to returning; Andreou still needs more time.”
On the match against Nea Salamina: “Extremely difficult—traditionally difficult. We already got a taste of what’s to come in the friendly they won 3-0 against us. We know what we’re up against. We need to be patient. We saw with APOEL that they gave them a hard time. We’re preparing for a tough game and hope we’ll live up to expectations.”
On the team’s current state: “Mr. Losada realizes that the team has lost its cohesion. We’ve been playing for a month with 7–8 players out. Mr. Losada has helped us tremendously lately, but no team can play at its best with only half its roster. So far, we’re doing exceptionally well, considering the schedule and which players were available. I’m confident the team will return to its high standards.”
On the fans: “The fans were impressive; they turned out in droves at ‘Ammochostos-Epistrofi,’ and there will be many more at the upcoming game. It’s been a month since we last played at home.”
