Sfairopoulos: «We need to prove that we want to go to the Final Four»
Giannis Sfairopoulos gave a Press Conference in view of the first playoffs game against Zalgiris (18/04, 20.15 CET). The 'reds' coach wished that the SEF is full and his wish will probably come to fruition, since we are only 400 tickets shy from a sold out.
"We are entering the playoffs. These are the games we've been waiting for since the beginning of the season and wanted to reach them at this stand point. We have been working towards this goal since the season started. The way we have been working, the team principles, are things that you get to "build" throughout the season. The players know what they need to be doing and they are ready. There are players that have been together for years and there are those that have been incorporated this season. Everyone, the new ones included, has understood what they need to be doing in terms of tactics and readiness. We are looking forward to these games and we need to play according to our plan for all we have worked for up to now".
And he went on to say: "It's a tough series. We all have the same ambitions and we all want to go to the final four. Zalgiris is a respected opponent. We know them and they know us. That's why we know what needs to be done. We need to remain focused for forty minutes and impose the rhythm. Play our game on both ends of the floor".
About the similarities and differences between the regular season games and those for the playoffs, he said: "Many things cannot be changed. It's just that these games are much more critical. There may be a couple of small surprises from both teams. However, when you have a certain philosophy, you don't change it just to create problems for the opponent. We have the experience and the readiness levels to face each problem within the game. The most important thing is concentration. Zalgiris has beaten us twice in the regular season, but we were missing players in both games. These defeats probably give extra motivation, but also prepare us ready, because we know that should we not be playing well, we shall lose. That's how the playoffs are. When you don't play well, you lose".
On whether Olympiacos' experience is his great advantage against Zalgiris that hasn't participated a final four since 1999, when they won the European Championship, he commented: "Yes, that's how it is on paper, but when you go on the floor, you can't count of tradition, seniority or experience. It is certain that our players are more seasoned, however, sometimes will beats experience. Whoever wants it the most, will get it… We have the experience on our side, but in sports, we have seen that an enthusiastic, willing and self-sacrificing team can beat experience. Experience is not the only element to decide the series. We need to prove that we want to go to yet another final four. That's what will count… Now, on how Zalgiris is going to be in these games, I cannot answer that. They certainly have ambition and they have shown to be playing very well. So they are definitely going to want to do something more. Having been in their last final four in 1999 is only a statistical number. They want to go to the final four, just like any other team… We are expecting a tough series against a very tough and organized team that has worked a lot and knows what they want on both ends of the floor. We are focusing on our own team. We need to be who we have to be and do what we have worked on".
On whether he's going to be having all his players available: "We have had issues lately and we still have. Printezis and Tillie are somewhat better. Strelnieks and Papanikolaou are the most worn out. We'll see… Everyone is going to try to play, but if somebody is hurting, we will not be using them. We are not going to risk the health of anyone of our players. We don't know yet… All four are doubtful to play. I think that the most improbable to play right now are Papanikolaou and Strelnieks".
Asked about the … thirst and will of V-Span, he replied: "Spanoulis is our leader. However, we are a team. We are all playing together. I count on all the players. Vassilis is certainly our leader; however, everyone's will is going to the test now and not only that of some. We need to show that we have a desire to go the final four. Talking is different to acting. How are we going to prove that? By fighting for every ball".
About the continuous comments Sarunas Jasikevicius has been making about the officiating, he answered: "I have spoken very highly of both Zalgiris and Saras. He's an excellent coach and he has lifted the team to a higher level. Zalgiris is a surprise for some people this season, but not to us. But although he's a new coach, he's been using old tricks. We are only looking at what we need to be doing on the floor".
Finally, when asked about the volleyball final game, when the organized fans filled the middle section of the stands, he replied laughing: "What do you want me to do? Organize the fans? Indeed, the spectacle at the volleyball game was impressive. But what is there for me to say on that? I wish that the SEF is packed and the fans help us with their voices as best as they can".