Anton Levchenko, Head Coach of the Taganiy Rog rugby team, has offered his reflections following the team`s participation in the recent Magnet Russian Rugby-7 Cup, where they secured a fifth-place finish. Despite not reaching the very top, Levchenko sees the tournament as a vital step in the team`s development and remains resolutely optimistic about what lies ahead.
Levchenko highlighted the significance of the Cup event for Taganiy Rog, stating the team approached it with considerable ambition and prepared diligently. He noted that in the initial stages of the championship, the squad demonstrated commendable play, competing effectively against leading teams and achieving victories that fueled confidence and morale.
The coach candidly addressed the challenges encountered during the tournament. Acknowledging that the team is relatively new, having been together for only about six months, he understood that the path to major victories is just beginning. While hope for a deeper run was high, fueled by expectations of team cohesion, dedication, and a shared objective, the dynamic and often unpredictable nature of Rugby-7 came into play.
Significant setbacks included the loss of two key players due to injuries early in the competition. Furthermore, a crucial match saw the team forced to play shorthanded for extended periods due to disciplinary penalties. Levchenko observed that this was, perhaps somewhat ironically, partly a consequence of the players` excessive desire to win, leading to moments of indiscretion under pressure.
Despite these hurdles, Levchenko expressed immense pride in his players` efforts. He commended their unwavering dedication, their fight to the very end, and their refusal to surrender even when facing adversity. He also extended gratitude to the club`s management for their trust and support throughout the campaign.
The Magnet Russian Rugby-7 Cup, according to Levchenko, served as a valuable learning experience. The team has drawn important conclusions from their performance and believes they have emerged stronger from the competition. With what he describes as a powerful and ambitious group of players, the coach is confident that the lessons learned will pave the way for future triumphs.
Concluding his remarks, Levchenko reiterated his firm belief in the team`s potential, declaring with conviction, “Our big victories are ahead!”
