Orenburg Football Club is facing a challenging moment as it finds itself at the bottom of the Russian Premier League (RPL). After 18 matches, the club has garnered only eight points, placing them firmly in the last position, which immediately raises concerns about their future. The team’s head coach, Vladimir Slishkovich, remains optimistic, asserting the need for belief and hard work as they attempt to fight their way up from this precarious situation.
Speaking to Match TV, Slishkovich emphasized the mathematical chance Orenburg still holds of avoiding relegation. He stated, “Orenburg must believe it can stay in the RPL as long as there are mathematical chances.” This comment encapsulates the determination and resolve needed from his players as they gear up for their upcoming matches.
The squad saw several changes during the season's break; four players from the first part of the season departed, but new faces like Tataev and Saveliev have joined the ranks. Slishkovich expressed satisfaction with the effort the new signings have put forth, though he acknowledged the challenges of their previous experience, having transitioned from the First National League (FNL) to the RPL. “The team has slightly changed... I’m satisfied with their work... We’ve put in hard work, and most players haven’t seen these levels of loads before,” he pointed out.
With their next match scheduled against Spartak on March 2, Slishkovich understands the gravity of the situation. He remarked, “When you are last, it’s always not by accident. There are reasons for it.” This reflects the complex dynamics at play at Orenburg FC, where performance and circumstances intertwine. For the coaching staff, the solution lies not merely in making adjustments but also ensuring the players are mentally prepared for the uphill battles they face.
Emphasizing the youth and potential within the roster, Slishkovich rallied, “I believe in this team, and these guys. I believe we can do it.” It’s this spirit of hope and the expectation of resilience that's fundamental as the team navigates through what seems like muddy waters.
Despite the grim statistics, Slishkovich and his coaching crew are committed to giving their best efforts to help the team recover from the current predicament. They remain passionate about rectifying mistakes as they strive to find solutions on the field. “All of us at the club recognize the gravity of the situation. We must work and try to correct these errors,” he affirmed, highlighting the determination fueling their efforts.
On the surface, the odds might seem stacked against them, but within the dressing room of Orenburg FC, there’s fight. A season of hard battles lies ahead, and with faith and relentless effort, they aim to turn the tide. Will they be able to produce results when they face off against Spartak next week? The upcoming match could very well define their season.