Luca Cereda is angry, he confessed it to the RSI microphones at the end of the match. His is not just disappointment, no, there is something more. His team lacks hunger and anger, and for those who, like him, often speak of “despair”, it is something intolerable.
Cereda also takes it out on Kubalik. Yes, even with him. “When I talk about being more hungry and angry, I’m obviously also talking to him. He can take a step forward, he can shoot more, as he has one of the best shots in the world.”
The Ambrì coach is not happy with Kubalik, it seems clear. From him, she expected something more. He was sure it would make a difference, but for now, apart from a few flashes, it hasn’t.
Cereda, on the other hand, seems to defend Didomenico with all his might: the new arrival still enjoys the trial period and the coach’s “good attitude”, despite a couple of naiveties that cost the team dearly in its first two matches.
“I believe that Dido has brought a lot in terms of work and attitude, he is someone who never gives up, even if he made mistakes in a couple of episodes”.
In short, Didomenico acquitted. He has the grit, not like others. This seems to be Cereda’s message.
And Kubalik? Even in terms of attitude, the Czech seems less present and determined than a few weeks ago. Did Didomenico’s arrival bother him?
The numbers say that in these first two games, Didomenico played about seven minutes more than Kubalik. Very, very much! And a little strange, too, for a newcomer.
Will this also bother Kubalik? Or will it be the attention that the environment has reserved for the former Friborg player? Or simply his personal situation, with an NHL contract slow in coming?
One thing is certain: to make a breakthrough, Ambrì needs to have these two players in top form and united with a single intent, that of helping the team. Otherwise it will be very hard.
(Photo Keystone/Branca)
