Lokomotiv’s Barinov and Galaktionov Comment on Refereeing After a 3-3 Draw with Samara
Agent Pavel Banatin, who represents Lokomotiv midfielder Dmitry Barinov, publicly supported Mikhail Galaktionov, the head coach of the club nicknamed the railway workers. Galaktionov had spoken out after a controversial episode in the 16th round of the Russian Premier League, where Lokomotiv drew 3-3 with Wings of the Soviets Samara. Banatin conveyed the stance as reported by a leading sports outlet, underscoring the coach’s view on the matter.
Banatin emphasized that although his comment might appear intensely emotional to some observers, it reflected the deep commitment Barinov has shown to his team and its outcomes. Barinov, known for his strong sense of justice, has long believed that refereeing decisions can significantly influence match results. Banatin summarized Galaktionov’s position in concise terms during the discussion, highlighting the sense of responsibility the coach feels for every game and its consequences.
Following the match, Barinov addressed the referees directly, labeling their performance as a source of embarrassment for football. In the mixed zone after the game, Galaktionov did not hold back as he commented on the refereeing, choosing to speak plainly about his assessment of the officiating. His remarks drew attention for their blunt tone and clear dissatisfaction with the officiating standard in that encounter.
In the game’s progression, Lokomotiv took the lead through Sergei Pinyaev in the 30th minute. Samara quickly equalized two minutes later thanks to Fernando Costanza. The second half saw Lokomotiv’s Rifat Zhemaletdinov restore the advantage with goals in the 62nd and 84th minutes. Samara tied the score late, with Vladimir Pisarsky finding the net in extra time, and Wings forward Benjamin Garre converting a penalty in the 100th minute to level the match at 3-3. The fixture demonstrated the attacking quality of both sides and the resilience to come back from deficit moments, though the referees’ decisions remained a focal point of post-match discussions.
Lokomotiv currently sits fifth in the league standings with 25 points from 16 matches, while Krylya Sovetov occupies third with 26 points. Krasnodar leads the championship with 32 points from 15 games. The outcome kept the title race competitive and reiterated the high stakes surrounding every match as teams press toward European qualification places in the campaign.
Earlier in the season, there were comments from Lokomotiv’s captain and coach about maintaining composure after disagreements with officiating. Those moments underscored the ongoing challenge players and staff face when officiating decisions are perceived as decisive in tight league games. The broader reaction among fans and analysts highlighted the importance of consistency in refereeing standards and the long-term impact such events have on team morale and public perception.