On the 25th, after the Meiji Yasuda J1 League Round 35 match FC Machida Zelvia [MATCH PARTNER Mitsubishi Heavy Industries], Shusaku Nishikawa reflected on the match and spoke about his enthusiasm for the next match.

(Looking back at today's Trial)
"None of us are satisfied with the 0-0 result. I was disappointed that I couldn't play in the previous Trial, and I personally had strong feelings about this Trial, so I was determined to keep the score at zero today at all costs. I had sensed the attitude of the fans and supporters when I came out to warm up, so I wanted to show that with a result at all costs. While I think I did the bare minimum, I believe that the most important thing is for the team to win, so when I think about what I could have done, I feel like I wanted to create more of a positive atmosphere."

(I think the atmosphere in the stadium today was unique. How did you feel as a player?)
"I've experienced an atmosphere like this before, but I think it was the first time for many of the current team members. It was a strange space with no voices, and I think we Trial in a different atmosphere than usual. When I saw the banners held up by the fans and supporters, I knew we had to win."

(There were no major crises, and we didn't create many chances, so the game was likely to end 0-0.)
"As a goalkeeper, I think I was able to intervene before the opponents could take a shot, and I have the impression that it was by no means an easy Trial, including the crosses and the one-on-one situations we had in the second half. However, we also had the feeling that we were unable to create decisive chances, which is something we need to reflect on today. We felt that if we had kept the defense at zero, we could have scored a goal, but the 0-0 result is disappointing for everyone."

(It was a worrying start as the opponent had a corner kick right after the kick-off.)
"On the other hand, I think that it was precisely because of that scene that we were able to concentrate. It's not about turning a crisis into an opportunity, but watching the match against (Yokohama) F. Marinos from the outside, I felt how important it is to speak up, and even when we were in a pinch, we all shouted together, which helped us to increase our concentration and defend well."

(How did you respond to the one-on-one scene in the second half?)
"It felt like the opponents were able to execute the play we're always aiming for, but they were facing backwards and I had the image of going for an attack when trapping the ball, so even though they didn't get the shot, I think that play was good and it showed what I'm always conscious of. I could see the opponents running and I had a feeling they weren't coming, and Tani (Akio)'s ball was fantastic, but I think it was good that we didn't panic even then."

(Since the league games in September, you have only scored one goal in seven Trial. Do you feel that your team's attacking skills are improving in training?)
"I think we've been doing very well this week. However, if you ask me if that's translating into consistent play or scoring, the results haven't been there, so we need to improve in other areas, but I think it's important for everyone to get their heads together right now."

(You yourself have been removed from the starting lineup, and I think the team is going through a difficult time, but as a veteran, how has your mindset changed from before?)
"Even now, I have a strong desire to continue Trial and contribute to the team, so even missing just one Trial can be stressful for me as a player, and of course I don't want to give up my position so easily. As long as my body is moving, I want to keep competing."

(The next match will be against his former Sanfrecce Hiroshima, but looking ahead to the next match)
"I'm really looking forward to playing in Hiroshima. I'll be able to play against great opponents on a good pitch, and I was disappointed to lose away last year, so I want to do my best this year to help the team win."

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