"You just managed to win your first tournament with the new lineup. How
surprising that success came for you?

I am not surprised of the win, but that it happened this soon. We have
always believed in our players. Even though we did not win something
big for a longer period of time we finished 2nd in many occasions.
But I am very impressed that the guys managed to become such a good
team this fast. Amazing!

Is now the team under enormous pressure to constantly prove themselves?

I think most of the pressure comes from themselves. They have wanted
to prove how good they are for a long time. We in SK know the
potential they have for the future. If they just keep on practicing
with this dedication they will go very far.

Who at SK Gaming has called the decision to commit the two new players?

Me and Anton talked a lot about potential players in the team for a
long time. The key was to find a good mixture of players that work
both in the game but also socially. Right now the team is very close
to perfect. Everyone on a very high skill level, having fun and
working very good together.

How long could you practice with the current squad? How intense was
the training?

Not too long. Robban was also away on vacation for a week in the
middle of preparation, something he planned half a year ago. But they
really made the most out of it. I am very impressed by their
dedication.

Could you think of this workload in the future? Is there any special
preparation for Dubai?

Now it is all about keeping up the momentum and practise harder. The
toughest thing is not to win, but to stay on top. I believe they will
succeed in doing that.

Gob b had said a few weeks ago, SK would never be able to beat fnatic.
What impact have such statements on your team?

I am surprised by that interview by him, didn't really understand if
he was just trying to scare his opponents or actually believed in what
he said. Big words from someone that still has not won that many major
tournaments (I don't count Pro Series). He also talked about their
tactics like it was something very new, but most if has been around
for ages. I hope he was joking!

Now you have already qualified for the Global Finals of the Extreme
Masters. How carefully do you play the main round of the Extreme
Masters Europe now?

We try to take all matches as serious as possible. Being qualified
already is great though, and can make the players relax a little and
hopefully play even better.

Would you say you wish that more games of the main round will be played at LAN?

It is always nicer for the players and the fans for matches to be
played on LAN. But I like the format as it is."