Ari: I know how to play against Spartak's defence
The Brazilian forward shares his emotions from the derby against Spartak (1:1) in Gameweek 20 of the Russian Premier League.
- It's your seventh goal in seven games against Spartak. How do you do that?
- It always feels nice to score against a former team. Spartak is one of them. I have good impressions of the time at the club, so the feeling just doubles. Besides, I know Spartak's manner of playing in defence all too well. I know how to position myself in attack. I had another opportunity. I could have scored a brace but was unlucky at finishing.
- What are your emotions from the draw?
- I'm a bit upset. We had the lead and conceded. However, Spartak are a worthy team who top the table. I think a draw is a fair result.
- Why did you get booked?
- In that episode I just waved my hand, unconsciously. Before that episode the referee had been ignoring such actions. Now I'm going to miss the next match.
- How did you like the fans' support?
- Players love it. I like playing to a packed stadium, these emotions are unforgettable. I feel I have good relations with the fans and I'm trying to establish that connection with them. Their attitude and a warm welcome by the team played a big role and charged me with energy. If they continue like that, I'm sure we are going to score many goals.
- Whose supporters were more audible?
- When I'm on the pitch I'm totally concentrated on the game, but when I scored I clearly heard the Railwaymen's fans. I know Spartak is the most popular team in Russia but we didn't lose that battle today and supported us really loudly.
- You fell twice in the box. Was there a penalty?
- There was none in the first instance, while somebody handplayed in the second one. I have to watch the replay.
- Having scored a goal, you ran towards the dugout.
- Before the game we joked that if I score, I had to congratulate Maicon and Farfan. We spend a lot of time together. Also, I'd like to devote this goal to Dmitriy Tarasov who is celebrating his 30th birthday.
- Spartak's owner Leonid Fedun watched the game from the stands. Do you want to send a message to him?
- I don't know him personally. But I can say I still have goals to score against his team.
