Fragkiskos Alvertis has spotted some positive and negative elements in Panathinaikos' game against Ilissiakos and he indicated them at the press conference.
"We knew in advance that all the game after crucial Euroleague encounters can become a trap, especially when you have to face teams "thirsty" for a win. We tried to embody some new elements in our game. The team run in fast break and we had some good periods. At the end the fatigue and the lack of focus on our side gave Ilissiakos the right to threaten us. We are looking ahead because there is not time for joy or for sadness. Given the absentees we have things get tougher for us. The positive thing is that the team is together and fighting. The game we have on Thursday will be special for reasons we all know. We will be happy to welcome Zeljko (Obradovic), but we are doomed to do what we have to do. Our players found time on the court and they tried for the best. Congratulations to Ilissiakos for a good night. I wish them best of luck".
Nikos Pappas noted: "It was a competitive game against a very good team. We wanted to try some things. In the first half we played well. We run and got easy baskets in fast break, something we want to do from now on. In the second half we weren't as good. We didn't communicate well in defense. We made mistakes we have to correct in the future. Our next game is a difficult one against Fenerbahce/Ulker and we want the positive result".
Jimmy Koustenis (Coach, Ilissiakos) stated: "I want to wish all the best to coach Alvertis. We wanted to be competitive against one of the best teams in Europe. We performed well during the biggest part to the game. We had energy and we showed some positive elements. The league just begins for us. We are focusing on the game against Aris and the other four finals that follow. We know that if we continue in this rhythm we can win all games at home and away".
Fotis Zoumpos (Player, Ilissiakos) stated: "We were facing one of the best teams in Europe. I believe that we had a good game. All games from now on will be like finals for us. I believe that all is going to work out well and we want fans to fill the gym on Saturday, especially after the way we played against Panathinaikos".
