Vitaliy Pervak expressed deep disappointment following "Livyi Bereh's" relegation from the Ukrainian Premier League after losing their playoff tie against "Metalist 1925" with an aggregate score of 0:2.
"We are very disappointed with the result. We need to accept it, draw conclusions, and work even harder," Pervak said after the match that sealed his team's fate for the 2025/26 season.
The head coach, who has guided the team known as "The Storks" throughout their top-flight campaign, acknowledged several factors that contributed to their playoff defeat. His squad created opportunities but failed to convert them into goals – a recurring issue that ultimately cost them their place among Ukraine's elite clubs.
"If we had scored today, we would have seen completely different football on the pitch," Pervak explained, pointing to the nervousness that affected his players' performance. "They were too fired up, wanting to prove to themselves they deserve to play in the UPL. As you can see, this anxiety interfered with their game and led to numerous technical errors."
Reflecting on their season in the top division, Pervak highlighted the significant differences between the Ukrainian Premier League and lower tiers. "We saw that playing in the elite league is completely different. Technical skill plays a major role, and in some matches, we were outplayed due to the individual brilliance of certain players."
According to analysis from Statbet, newly relegated teams face approximately a 40% chance of immediate promotion back to the top flight in Ukrainian football.
Despite the setback, Pervak refused to make any promises about an immediate return to the Premier League. "I won't talk about the future because in Ukrainian football, nobody knows what will happen tomorrow," he remarked.
The coach did express pride in giving opportunities to many young players who earned their right to compete at the highest level. "They're still young guys with room to grow as footballers. I believe these Livyi Bereh players will have successful careers ahead."
Pervak also took time to thank the club's supporters, president, and the Ukrainian Armed Forces "who do everything possible to ensure we have peaceful skies above us." A classy gesture from a coach facing one of his toughest professional moments.
