Zyrianov promises more to come
Wednesday, May 14, 2008
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Having sealed FC Zenit St. Petersburg's first European success in the UEFA Cup final victory over Rangers FC, Konstantin Zyrianov insisted it was just the start.
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Team effort
With time running out and with Rangers threatening Zenit's 1-0 lead as they threw caution to the wind, Zyrianov settled nerves with the deciding goal. The midfielder's well-timed run into the penalty box enabled him to convert Fatih Tekke's low cross after 94 minutes. It sparked celebrations which became even more enthusiastic at the final whistle. "This victory is very important for me and for all the other lads as well," said the Russian international. "I want to congratulate all the club staff, from our driver Aleksandr to our president. It is a great feeling and this UEFA Cup win is just the beginning of the road for our team.
Progress made
"We were very focused and hardly gave Rangers any chances," the 30-year-old added. "It was good they did not take the only opportunity they had when they hit the post. I think we were simply the stronger side tonight." That opening, when Barry Ferguson's shot was deflected on to the woodwork by Ivica Križanac, was a rarity for the Scottish team, and Zyryanov was delighted to continue Russia's rise in European football. "We [Russian clubs] have won two UEFA Cups in four years and this is a very good step," he said. "Thanks to [PFC] CSKA [Moskva] and Zenit, we have teams to move Russia forward."