late show sends Rubin Kazan past Lokomotiv Moskva

The opening day showdown Rosgosstrakh Championship of Russia saw between Rubin Kazan and Lokomotiv Moskva saw the defending champions defeat the capital city side 2-0 victory in a tepid affair. Along with the frozen pitch of Central Stadium and lack of full match preparedness, both sides fell short of expectations.

Rubin Kazan manager Kurban Berdyev, after a busy week that included a draw with Wolfsburg in the Europa League and the Russian Super Cup, adjusted in line-up with new-man Jordi, along with Vagiz Galiullin seeing a rare appearance. Notable play early on was rare, with a number of collisions taking its toll. Midway the half Vagiz Galiullin was forced out and Fatih Tekke was called upon. Lokomotiv striker Dramane Traore, was gifted two high probability opportunities but squandered both.

After the break, the match still lacked a cutting edge, until the final stages when Lokomotiv lost focus and allowed two late goals. With two minutes in regulation remaining, Andrei Gorbanets who had entered late for Alan Kasaev, gave Rubin the 1-0 lead as he sent a brilliant shot, with the outside of the his right foot, to the near post. As regulation time wound down Fatih Tekke surged down the right channel and sent a low cross that Aleksandr Bukharov turned in from close range to seal the 2-0 victory for Rubin Kazan.

Prepared by J. Davies
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