 The Soviet coaches Bobrov and Kulagin were interviewed after the series in Sovietsky Sport . They accused Team Canada of " trying several methods to intimidate their players , though this war of nerves did not bring them success . " The coaches said they were astonished that the Canadians argued with the referees . They singled out Team Canada Assistant Coach John Ferguson for his " pugnacity " . They did compliment Team Canada on their defensive skills but felt that the Soviets were technically superior , and , but for some deplorable mistakes by their players , the Soviets would have won the series . 
