Kotal replaced Jozef Weber, who was fired during the week, and returned to a position that is inextricably linked to his playing, coaching, official and personal life. Plus to a brand new stadium.
How did you enjoy your first duel after returning?
We perceived everything that happened just before the game. After my arrival, there was a lot of positive feedback on the Internet. I’m glad the return went well, that’s more important. I enjoy the new arena and the great atmosphere, the audience deserved it all. They always went to football in Hradec and cheered. Personally, I still remember the oil slag here, which we couldn’t even tear off our feet. I remember that when I was the director of the club in the 90s, I had a model of the new stadium on my desk. So consider how long it took. I’m glad I lived to see it. (smile)
Overall, are you satisfied with the win and the performance?
We knew the mood was not ideal after conceding eight goals in the last two rounds. We convinced the players that it was in them to complete the tasks and try to play from a consistent defense. Jablonec has great quality in attack, so I am pleased with how we managed the match. It was a shame that we didn’t score a second goal in the first half. Thanks guys for keeping the points at home.
What was the most difficult part of putting together the lineup?
I wouldn’t say it was one thing. There were not many changes, due to the arrangement we mainly adjusted the roles of the players. The previous two games showed that something needs to change. I am quite a pedant about defense, responsibility and honesty. We were also lucky and it was decided that we kicked the zero. The opponent created chances thanks to individuality, even if it is not playing well for them as a team so far.
How did you feel at the moment when Filip Čihák kicked the ball from the goal line and Jablonec got a red card for your counterattack?
It’s football, just a game. I was certainly stunned by Jablonec’s chances, I don’t even really know who it was in the one you mentioned. But as I say, I am happy that the points are at home.
Václav Pilař played the entire match for the first time since his return to Hradec.
I returned Vashko to the role he had years ago. Played from the left, he is strong in guiding the ball into the center. He lasted ninety minutes, but I want the players if they have enough to say it. I’ll let them know how they feel.
What to say about Daniel Horák, who scored only one goal and already has three in the season from the position of full back?
I had him in the national under-17 team and in Sparta. We knew that the full-backs of Jablonec are excellent up front, but they have problems at the back. We took advantage of that, Dan made a good run and scored. It’s just an encouragement to the guys that we’re not giving them bad advice. Otherwise, I’m pretty strict in rating players. He is capable going forward, he scored a goal, he has good crosses, but we have a problem in positioning in the defensive phase. Our last player should not guard the air, but have the opponent between him and the line. I kept yelling at Dan.
The cup with Jihlava awaits you now, how will you approach it?
We have a wide squad, players who didn’t get a chance today will certainly start. In addition, we have tough matches ahead of us. Derby with Pardubice and then Sparta.
