Gravitas' Human star Mihail "XyLigan" Ryabkov is the team captain and one of the most important players on his national side Russia in the ENC. The Russians look, as always, very strong on paper and will be facing Sweden on Monday. GosuGamers had a little chat with XyLigan regarding the ENC Main Rounds that start next week.
1
What do you think of the ENC group drawings? Do you feel that your group (Group B) is more difficult than the other one?
Yeah, of course. There are the champions Finland from last year's ENC and also the ex-champions Sweden. Both have very strong lineups and I think top 3 of our group will also be the top 3 of the whole ENC.
2
What do you think of your own team's strength? Do you think you've got what it takes to make it to finals?
Well, we are one of the favourites to win the ENC. Last year we ended first in our group, but we couldn't get VISA's (thanks to NPCL*...). Now we are alot stronger.
[*NPCL = National Professional Cybersport League]
3
Regarding the issues with the VISAs, how do you plan on overcoming that problem this year if you make it to the finals?
Well, now we got a flat in Moscow and I don't want to rely on some company to get it for us like at last ENC. That time, NPCL contacted us and said that they would do it for us, which was good because we live in different cities and you need to go to Moscow to get a VISA. Now we will do it by ourselves since we both train and live in Moscow. So it won't be a problem.
4
You'll be playing against Sweden on Monday. What are your hopes for this match? What will it take for you to win?
Right now, me and TitaN are living in Moscow and are really in good shape. I'm sure our other players can get points as well. I hope we will win and also that it will be 5-0 in our favour. Every point is important, but, as I said, Team Sweden are really strong - they're one of the favourites. So I think it will be a nice match.
5
Which Swedish player do you fear the most?
Personally, I don't think there is a player who any of us fear. Sure, they are all strong, but it will all be about the lineups.
