Week seven of the Rosgosstrakh Championship of Russia got underway Saturday with CSKA, Dinamo and Lokomotiv lodging important victories.
Sibir Novosibirsk 1 CSKA Moskva 4
CSKA Moskva finally living up to its vast promise with a 4-1 devastation of host Sibir Novosibirsk. With the result, the Army-Men jump to the top of the table, whilst the Siberian rest at the polar opposite with a scant point to show for their efforts.
In the opening weeks of the campaign, CSKA have lacked the cutting edge and many have begun to question if all their off-season signings had spoiled the careful balance. Though they had plenty of attacking options, it was obvious they had yet to gel and talented playmaker Alan Dzagoev has played out of position. Concerned with his sides lack of output, manager Leonid Slutsky adjusted his line-up with strikers Tomáš Necid and Guilherme paired up top in a 5-3-2 formation to start. Mark González and Miloš Krasić started the day on the bench with Alan Dzagoev taking a centralist role, flanked by Keisuke Honda and young gun Pavel Mamayev.
Sibir, coming off a remarkable Russian Cup victory over Alaniya Vladikavkaz this Wednesday, were clearly motivated to lock down the Army-Men’s early advances. However, at the eleventh minute CSKA went in front 1-0 as Sergey Ignashevich capitalized on a defending flaw and slipped under his mark at the near post to head in Alan Dzagoev’s corner from the left. Sibir showed good spirit after the goal and did not back down. However, in the final strike of added-time before the break Guilherme accepted Keisuke Honda’s provision from the left and fired his third goal in two weeks to the far right corner of the net to get CSKA the 2-0 lead at the break.
At the restart, Igor Kriushenko’s side was greeted with rousing cheers as their supporters were appreciated of their sturdy efforts. Down by two, the Siberian tactician summoned Ivan Nagibin in for Aleksandr Antipenko to shore up his midfield. Nine minutes after the break, CSKA increased its lead as Aleksei Berezutski (Алексей Березуцкий) surged down the right channel before sending a cross from the by-line that Tomáš Necid turned in from five metres. Shifting into high-gear, the Army-Men were in front 4-0 with seventeen minutes remaining as Alan Dzagoev accepted the ball from Tomáš Necid as he surged through the right channel and scored from ten metres out. A minute later, Sibir gave their highly appreciative fans to celebrate as Tomáš Čížek fired a shot, albeit with a fortuitous deflection off Sergey Ignashevich into the net. While CSKA continued to pressure, the match ended without further mark and the Army-Men claimed the 4-1 victory.
Dinamo Moskva 1 Saturn Moskovskaya Oblast 0
Dinamo Moskva brought its five match winless run to an end with a 1-0 victory over Saturn Moskovskaya Oblast at Arena Khimki.
The start of the campaign has been a perplexing mix for the White-Blues as they have shown flashes of brilliance but had problems with finishing and only able to muster a single win heading into today's contest. However, the flourishing attack of Alexandr Samedov, Andriy Voronin and emerging star Aleksandr Kokorin has shown extraordinary promise and it was only time before they found the winning column.
From the opening whistle, it was clear Andrei Gordeev’s side were going to play a tough physical style as evidenced by Ruslan Nakhushev's take down of Aleksandr Kokorin at the second minute that caught match day referee Igor Yegorov in a forgiving mood. The early stages saw the White-Blues show quality pace and vision, with Edgaras Česnauskis and Andriy Voronin posing a series of menacing advances. Dinamo squandered a chance to take the lead when Aleksandr Kokorin accepted the ball from Andriy Voronin in the box with the youngster sliding it to the direction of Alexandr Samedov but it seemed to catch the former FC Moskva fan flat footed and he could not get a touch on it. The hosts continued to flourish however with each turn Saturn was up to the task and the match went to the break without a score.
At the restart, with their supporters in full song cheering "Dinamo", the White-Blues came out with a fire burning in their bellies. Prodding for the go-ahead goal Andriy Voronin got on the end of Vladimir Gabulov 's long ball but the Ukrainian international booming drive from just inside the area was stopped. At the seventy-third minute, Dinamo got the goal they were looking for as a corner from the right was headed on by Leandro Fernández, to which Alexandru Epureanu lashed it in from close range. The only dark spot of the affair for Dinamo was a disciplinary break down by Andriy Voronin where he received two yellow-cards in the final minutes, the last for a horrendous challenge of Pyotr Nemov. After two minutes of added time, the match concluded with Dinamo claiming the full three points with a 1-0 victory.
Lokomotiv Moskva 2 Tom Tomsk 1
In the final match of the day, Lokomotiv Moskva continued their dominating run at home with a 2-1 victory over Tom Tomsk.
In an exciting contest where both sides had opportunities to go out in front, the Railwayman were fortunate not to fall behind after bestowing an early marker upon Valeriy Klimov. The veteran was in alone on Lokomotiv 'keeper Guilherme but after a poor touch, Renat Yanbayev cleared the ball to safety and the deadlock maintained. Aleksandr Kharitonov later tested the Lokomotiv 'keeper before the hosts went out in front three minutes past the half-hour mark. Denis Glushakov, latching on to a loose ball drove towards the centre of the pitch and few metres outside the box sent the ball to the right inside post to give Lokomotiv a 1-0 lead. Just before the break, Oleksandr Aliyev surged from the right side of the box before cutting diagonally and firing his sixth goal of the campaign to the near post to give Lomotiv the 2-0 lead.
After the break, Lokomotiv tightened down the proceedings and rarely offered Tomsk the slightest space to operate. However, finishing was again the Railwaymen's issue as quality chances were unfulfilled. Tomsk's best chance came early when young gun Artyom Dzyuba was left unchecked at the back post on a corner from the left but his volley soared high. Two minutes past the hour, Tomsk manager Valeriy Nepomnyaschy summoned Alexander Prudnikov into the fray as he searched for the needed touch. Chances continued to be rare until the eighty-third minute when Belarusian international Sergey Kornilenko poached on a loose ball following a collision and fired it in from just outside the area. That would be as close as the match would get as Lokomotiv culled the visitors remaining advances and claimed the 2-1 victory.
Prepared by J. Davies
©Joga Bonito Renegade Style, a division of Renegade Style Productions, 2010.
All rights reserved
Saturday, April 24, 2010
Sunday, March 21, 2010
Week 2 summary of Rosgosstrakh Championship of Russia
Week two of 2010, Rosgosstrakh Championship of Russia campaign got underway with Spartak Nalchik claiming a 2-1 victory over Alania Vladikavkaz in a Caucasus Derby. The match served testament to the excitement of Russian football across the country as supporters from both sides packed Spartak Stadium in a highly vocal display.
Anxious to impress their home supporters after a disappointing nil draw to Anzhi Makhachkala, Nalchik went on the attack early. After forcing a top-shelf save out of Alania Vladikavkaz goalkeeper Dmitri Khomich at the twenty-first minute, fireworks in the stadium erupted two minutes later Nalchik took the lead. Getting on the end of a loose ball, Aleksandr Shchanitsyn fought off Georgi Bazayev before scoring his first goal in the top flight of Russian football with a dipping drive from beyond area into the back of the net. Nalchik continued to the press with youngster Nikita Malyarov shining. Four minutes shy of the half-hour mark Kazbek Geteriev whipped in a free kick to the back post that Vladimir Dyadyun narrowly missed with his header that went just a smidgen over the crossbar. To the delight of their travelling supporters, Alania stirred and came close to levelling a minute later as a corner from the right rattled around in the box before a blocked effort was cleared to safety. Yuri Krasnozhan's side continued to shine and just before the break went up 2-0 as Gogita Gogua latched onto a loose ball, feigned an effort twice before sending his drive past the outstretched reaches of the Alania goalkeeper to the bottom left corner of the net.
Nalchik showed no let-up after the break, narrowly missing putting the match out of reach only due to the work of Alania 'keeper Dmitri Khomich. After a number of chances came up empty, the visitors brought the match to within a single strike as Dzhambulad Bazaev converted from the spot after Vladimir Kisenkov was adjudged a penalty. Despite their efforts, Vladimir Shevchuk’s side were unable to level and match concluded with Spartak Nalchik claiming a 2-1 victory in the Caucasus.
Amkar Perm 1 Anzhi Makhachkala 0
In the opening match on Saturday afternoon, Amkar Perm lodged its first win of the campaign as they defeated visiting Anzhi Makhachkala 1-0. Coming off their unfortunate opening week loss to CSKA Moskva Rashid Rakhimov’s side had something to prove to their home supporters and they did not disappoint with a dominating, if not disciplined, display. Though the Red-Blacks dominated for long stretches of the match, the hosts who posed the first serious threat as Andrey Streltsov latched onto a long cross on the right channel before working his way into the area and firing a left-footed effort a few metres wide of the near post. Six minutes shy of the break, Makhachkala's Mahir Shukurov received a yellow for a stiff challenge Zahari Sirakov and after having words with the match-day referee saw a red pulled out. Forced to play a man down, the visitors did well to maintain pressure but with sixteen minutes remaining in the day Amkar finally broke through as Georgi Peev's cross from the right into the box was flicked on to the back post by Josip Knežević where Ivan Cherenchikov, controlled with his chest before volleying into the net. The balance of the match saw Amkar resourceful in protecting the lead and without further incident claimed the full three points with a 1-0 victory.
Terek Grozny 1 Rostov 1
Terek Grozny's home debut new campaign was spoiled by Rostov as they played to a 1-1 draw, honours even. With a sunny late winter backdrop, the Chechen side looked confident after last week’s victory over Sibir Novosibirsk. The celebratory fan-fare prior to the match, gave way to a superb, if not dominating performance. Four minutes after the opening whistle, Shamil Asildarov continued to his stunning goal-scoring run that started late last year with Spartak Nalchik. The twenty-six year-old striker notched his second goal of the year after being played through with a brilliant pass by Rizvan Utsiyev and sending his effort past Rostov goalkeeper Dejan Radić from twelve metres. The start confirmed Grozny's superb potential but following the early marker, they possessed the style but not the substance to add to the lead. Grozny had many opportunities to build upon the lead, including a Dmitri Yatchenko's seeing eye pass that this time the ‘keeper foiled Shamil Asildarov. That said, Rostov made the best of their rare opportunities and with nine minutes remaining in regulation time, Igor Lebedenko sent a cross into the box the was partially cleared to the left side of the area where Mersudin Ahmetović volleyed the ball to the opposite corner of the net to level the contest. In the hunt for the victory, Grozny manager Anatoly Baidachny immediately summoned Zaur Sadayev in for Maurício but the winning mark was not forthcoming and the match concluded as a 1-1 draw, honours even.
Sibir Novosibirsk 1 Saturn Moskovskaya 1
Sibir Novosibirsk put forth a superb effort with a 1-1 draw with Saturn Moskovskaya Oblast in Ramenskoe. Coming off last week's loss to Terek Grozny, Sibir Novosibirsk manager Igor Kriushenko summoned veterans Aleksandr Shulenin, Aleksandr Degtyaryov, Tomáš Vychodil and Arūnas Klimavičius into the line-up. From the opening whistle, the Siberian's took the simple, yet effective approach of out-working their hosts. Denying any advances by Saturn, Siber took the shock 1-0 lead a minute into added-time before the break as Alexey Medvedev, at the back post, headed Tomáš Čížek's cross from the left flank into the net.
Saturn Moskovskaya Oblast manager Andrey Gordeev clearly had something to say to his side during the break, as they were a different unit from the re-start. Summoning veteran, Martin Jakubko, formerly of FC Moskva, into the proceedings, Saturn began to carve out openings. With Andrei Karyaka and Denis Boyarintsev at the wheel of the Saturn attack, Sibir 'keeper Wojciech Kowalewski earned full marks by keeping the hosts at bay. After stopping Saturn's Benoît Angbwa close range header, the Siberian goalkeeper was finally beaten with seventeen minutes remaining in regulation time as Aleksei Ivanov lodged his second goal of the early campaign as, at the back post, he headed Denis Boyarintsev's free kick from the right to level the match. With thirteen minutes remaining, Aleksandr Makarenko received his second yellow and like the opening week, Sibir finished the day a man down. Saturn pressed for the winner as the match was completely a one-way street in the remaining time and though Aleksei Ivanov came within a whisper of scoring, the match ended as a 1-1 draw, honours even.
Lokomotiv Moskva 3 Kryliya Sovetov 0
In the final match on Saturday afternoon of week two, Yuriy Semin’s Lokomotiv Moskva devastated visiting Kryliya Sovetov 3-0. After last week’s late collapse to Rubin Kazan, it was clear the "People's Coach" had ordered up a response. With Dmitri Torbinski back into the starting eleven, after serving a suspension that carried over from last year, Lokomotiv went on the attack early and completely dominated their visitors. Attacks came quick and often and though finishing was off, with once again Dramane Traoré unable to close a number of fine efforts it was only time until the Muscovite's took the lead.
After a scoreless opening half, Kryliya manager Yuriy Gazzaev had to be pleased that his side somehow managed to keep the match deadlocked. However, that changed within a quarter-hour as Lokomotiv erupted with three rapid-fire goals. Four minutes after the restart, Aleksandr Budanov was adjudged a penalty for bringing down a Lokomotiv man in the area and the spot was pointed to. New arrival from Dinamo Kiev Oleksandr Aliyev, stepped up and without a splinter of doubt drove the ball to the back of the net. The Samaran's problems grew only as four minutes later Renat Yanbayev was pulled down in the area and once again, Lokomotiv stepped to the spot. On this occasion Dmitri Sychev, who otherwise shone brightly through the match, pounded the ball in to give Lokomotiv the 2-0 lead. Three minutes later, Ukrainian international Oleksandr Aliyev demonstrated his notable set piece abilities as from a free kick he hammed the ball over the wall before dipping into the net. With the match effectively over, the complexion of the match changed and though the visitors did well going forward they were unable to break through as Lokomotiv Moskva claimed the 3-0 victory.
Spartak Moskva 1 Zenit Saint Petersburg 1
Sunday afternoon in the Rosgosstrakh Championship of Russia opened with the bitter Russian Derby, with Zenit Saint Petersburg scoring a late goal to play bitter rivals Spartak Moskva to a 1-1 draw at Petrovski Stadium.
After a disappointing opening week, which saw they lose to lose to Dinamo, Spartak came out the aggressor of the two. Without the services of Cristian Maidana, Martin Stranzl and Nikola Drinčić to injury, along with Aleksandr Sheshukov under suspension, Spartak manager Valeriy Karpin summoned teen phenom Pavel Yakovlev, Renat Sabitov, Marek Suchý and Ari into the starting eleven. The opening quarter-hour saw the hosts overrun as Spartak surged forward against Zenit that was clearly on its back-heels. After an Ibson effort rasped off the right post, Spartak went out in front 1-0 at the thirteenth minute, initiated from an Alex from the left. The former Internacional sent his dangerous effort into the box that Zenit 'keeper Vyacheslav Malafeev tried to parry but got tangled up with Marek Suchý and the ball bounded just to the left of the goal. Welliton immediately sent it the back post through a maze of bodies and though Sergei Parshivlyuk may have got a touch on it before it crossed the line, the striker got credit for the score. Regardless of who scored, the shot across the bow was clear as Spartak had the lead. The goal seemed to wake Luciano Spalletti’s side, albeit slowly, who otherwise up to this point was terribly lacking going forward. Danny began to slowly turn the screw with flanking assaults and midway of the half he sent a cross from the right by-line that Spartak 'keeper Soslan Dzhanayev swatted away, only to see Roman Shirokov force him into a second save. From this point, the story of much of the match became Spartak's young keeper as he consistently denied Zenit's advances. Spartak narrowly missed doubling its lead at the thirty-fourth minute when Alex sent a free kick from distance but with a final swerve, it went a shade wide. Seven minutes shy of the break, Danny sent Vladimir Bystrov the ball from the left side of the area, via an overhead kick but the Russian international who had otherwise been unaccounted for, saw his close range effort saved by Soslan Dzhanayev and the match went to the break with Spartak holding the 1-0 lead.
At the break, Luciano Spalletti called upon Danko Lazović for Szabolcs Huszti as they looked for more production on the left and the Serbian international had an immediate impact. Injecting pace and vision into the Zenit attack, the hosts started to control the run of play. Fed through the left channel from Danny, he nearly opened his Zent scoring log two minutes after the restart but his effort sailed a fraction over the bar. Moments later, Zenit narrowly missed levelling as Roman Shirokov headed Danny's free kick wide right. In back and forth action, Spartak pressed for the second goal, with Zenit 'keeper Vyacheslav Malafeev making a brilliant stop of Welliton's effort. Seven minutes past the hour Vladimir Bystrov led a powerful surge down the centre of pitch before sending the ball to Danko Lazović, who then crossed for Aleksandr Kerzhakov at the back post but once again the Spartak 'keeper rose to the occasion to stop the chance. With ten minutes, remaining Alessandro Rosina replaced Vladimir Bystrov and as expected, the Petrovski faithful still have yet to welcome him wholly. Chances were sparse as time ticked down but with a minute remaining in regulation time, Zenit grabbed the equalizer to the delight of their voracious supporters. Coming from the free kick to the right of the box, former Torino-man Alessandro Rosina sent a low cross in the box that Belgian international Nicolas Lombaerts headed into the net. After four minutes of added-time, the match concluded as a 1-1 draw, honours even.
Dinamo Moskva 0 CSKA Moskva 0
In the final match on Sunday, Dinamo continued their impressive start to the campaign with nil draw against CSKA, in the Moscow Derby at Arena Khimki. The score does not do justice to the White-Blues’ play as they controlled the majority of match, dictated the proceedings and greatly nullified the Army-Men’s attacking quadrant of Alan Dzagoev, Miloš Krasić, Tomáš Necid and Keisuke Honda.
Coming of their victory over Spartak in the opening week, Dinamo manager Andrey Kobelev summoned Aleksandr Kokorin into the starting eleven and the nineteen-year-old attacker was brilliant from start to finish. Pushing CSKA on its heels early, Dinamo posed a number of viscous assaults including at the twentieth minute when Aleksandr Kokorin laid the ball back to Igor Semshov but the veteran’s effort went just a morsel wide from twelve metres. Not deterred, the White-Blues tore forward with Aleksandr Kokorin sending a cross from the left by-line into the box that Kirill Kombarov re-directed off the bar from close range. Slowly, Leonid Slutsky's side began to show more confidence and just after the hour young Russian international Alan Dzagoev was played through by Miloš Krasić but saw his ensuing effort swatted away by Dinamo 'keeper Vladimir Gabulov. Six minutes shy of the break, Aleksandr Kokorin was once again at the root of Dinamo's advances, as his left wing cross to the back post saw CSKA 'keeper Igor Akinfeev maintain the deadlock with a superb stop from the resulting chance.
After the break, tempo slowed as CSKA looked to cull Dinamo's free ranging attacks. At the hour mark, Tomáš Necid sent an effort wide after being played through, only to see a reprieve via a late offside call. Quickly thereafter, Pavel Mamayev entered for Alan Dzagoev, who had lodged nearly nine kilometres at this stage. The Army-Men pushed forward with Miloš Krasić in a promising run but Vladimir Granat, who had just entered for Edgaras Česnauskis, made a brilliant tackle to halt his efforts. Pavel Mamayev's impact was quick as he sent a tantalizing cross into the box from the left wing that Tomáš Necid headed narrowly wide. Dinamo pushed back with Igor Akinfeev rising to the occasion as he defended an attacking onslaught following Luke Wilkshire's corner from the right. In the final ten minutes, Mr. Slutsky called Guilherme and Elvir Rahimić into the fray but Dinamo's resolute defending thwarted their efforts and the match concluded as a nil draw.
Still to play in a rare Monday afternoon contest, defending champions Rubin Kazan visit Tom Tomsk.
Prepared by J. Davies
©Joga Bonito Renegade Style, a division of Renegade Style Productions, 2010.
All rights reserved
Anxious to impress their home supporters after a disappointing nil draw to Anzhi Makhachkala, Nalchik went on the attack early. After forcing a top-shelf save out of Alania Vladikavkaz goalkeeper Dmitri Khomich at the twenty-first minute, fireworks in the stadium erupted two minutes later Nalchik took the lead. Getting on the end of a loose ball, Aleksandr Shchanitsyn fought off Georgi Bazayev before scoring his first goal in the top flight of Russian football with a dipping drive from beyond area into the back of the net. Nalchik continued to the press with youngster Nikita Malyarov shining. Four minutes shy of the half-hour mark Kazbek Geteriev whipped in a free kick to the back post that Vladimir Dyadyun narrowly missed with his header that went just a smidgen over the crossbar. To the delight of their travelling supporters, Alania stirred and came close to levelling a minute later as a corner from the right rattled around in the box before a blocked effort was cleared to safety. Yuri Krasnozhan's side continued to shine and just before the break went up 2-0 as Gogita Gogua latched onto a loose ball, feigned an effort twice before sending his drive past the outstretched reaches of the Alania goalkeeper to the bottom left corner of the net.
Nalchik showed no let-up after the break, narrowly missing putting the match out of reach only due to the work of Alania 'keeper Dmitri Khomich. After a number of chances came up empty, the visitors brought the match to within a single strike as Dzhambulad Bazaev converted from the spot after Vladimir Kisenkov was adjudged a penalty. Despite their efforts, Vladimir Shevchuk’s side were unable to level and match concluded with Spartak Nalchik claiming a 2-1 victory in the Caucasus.
Amkar Perm 1 Anzhi Makhachkala 0
In the opening match on Saturday afternoon, Amkar Perm lodged its first win of the campaign as they defeated visiting Anzhi Makhachkala 1-0. Coming off their unfortunate opening week loss to CSKA Moskva Rashid Rakhimov’s side had something to prove to their home supporters and they did not disappoint with a dominating, if not disciplined, display. Though the Red-Blacks dominated for long stretches of the match, the hosts who posed the first serious threat as Andrey Streltsov latched onto a long cross on the right channel before working his way into the area and firing a left-footed effort a few metres wide of the near post. Six minutes shy of the break, Makhachkala's Mahir Shukurov received a yellow for a stiff challenge Zahari Sirakov and after having words with the match-day referee saw a red pulled out. Forced to play a man down, the visitors did well to maintain pressure but with sixteen minutes remaining in the day Amkar finally broke through as Georgi Peev's cross from the right into the box was flicked on to the back post by Josip Knežević where Ivan Cherenchikov, controlled with his chest before volleying into the net. The balance of the match saw Amkar resourceful in protecting the lead and without further incident claimed the full three points with a 1-0 victory.
Terek Grozny 1 Rostov 1
Terek Grozny's home debut new campaign was spoiled by Rostov as they played to a 1-1 draw, honours even. With a sunny late winter backdrop, the Chechen side looked confident after last week’s victory over Sibir Novosibirsk. The celebratory fan-fare prior to the match, gave way to a superb, if not dominating performance. Four minutes after the opening whistle, Shamil Asildarov continued to his stunning goal-scoring run that started late last year with Spartak Nalchik. The twenty-six year-old striker notched his second goal of the year after being played through with a brilliant pass by Rizvan Utsiyev and sending his effort past Rostov goalkeeper Dejan Radić from twelve metres. The start confirmed Grozny's superb potential but following the early marker, they possessed the style but not the substance to add to the lead. Grozny had many opportunities to build upon the lead, including a Dmitri Yatchenko's seeing eye pass that this time the ‘keeper foiled Shamil Asildarov. That said, Rostov made the best of their rare opportunities and with nine minutes remaining in regulation time, Igor Lebedenko sent a cross into the box the was partially cleared to the left side of the area where Mersudin Ahmetović volleyed the ball to the opposite corner of the net to level the contest. In the hunt for the victory, Grozny manager Anatoly Baidachny immediately summoned Zaur Sadayev in for Maurício but the winning mark was not forthcoming and the match concluded as a 1-1 draw, honours even.
Sibir Novosibirsk 1 Saturn Moskovskaya 1
Sibir Novosibirsk put forth a superb effort with a 1-1 draw with Saturn Moskovskaya Oblast in Ramenskoe. Coming off last week's loss to Terek Grozny, Sibir Novosibirsk manager Igor Kriushenko summoned veterans Aleksandr Shulenin, Aleksandr Degtyaryov, Tomáš Vychodil and Arūnas Klimavičius into the line-up. From the opening whistle, the Siberian's took the simple, yet effective approach of out-working their hosts. Denying any advances by Saturn, Siber took the shock 1-0 lead a minute into added-time before the break as Alexey Medvedev, at the back post, headed Tomáš Čížek's cross from the left flank into the net.
Saturn Moskovskaya Oblast manager Andrey Gordeev clearly had something to say to his side during the break, as they were a different unit from the re-start. Summoning veteran, Martin Jakubko, formerly of FC Moskva, into the proceedings, Saturn began to carve out openings. With Andrei Karyaka and Denis Boyarintsev at the wheel of the Saturn attack, Sibir 'keeper Wojciech Kowalewski earned full marks by keeping the hosts at bay. After stopping Saturn's Benoît Angbwa close range header, the Siberian goalkeeper was finally beaten with seventeen minutes remaining in regulation time as Aleksei Ivanov lodged his second goal of the early campaign as, at the back post, he headed Denis Boyarintsev's free kick from the right to level the match. With thirteen minutes remaining, Aleksandr Makarenko received his second yellow and like the opening week, Sibir finished the day a man down. Saturn pressed for the winner as the match was completely a one-way street in the remaining time and though Aleksei Ivanov came within a whisper of scoring, the match ended as a 1-1 draw, honours even.
Lokomotiv Moskva 3 Kryliya Sovetov 0
In the final match on Saturday afternoon of week two, Yuriy Semin’s Lokomotiv Moskva devastated visiting Kryliya Sovetov 3-0. After last week’s late collapse to Rubin Kazan, it was clear the "People's Coach" had ordered up a response. With Dmitri Torbinski back into the starting eleven, after serving a suspension that carried over from last year, Lokomotiv went on the attack early and completely dominated their visitors. Attacks came quick and often and though finishing was off, with once again Dramane Traoré unable to close a number of fine efforts it was only time until the Muscovite's took the lead.
After a scoreless opening half, Kryliya manager Yuriy Gazzaev had to be pleased that his side somehow managed to keep the match deadlocked. However, that changed within a quarter-hour as Lokomotiv erupted with three rapid-fire goals. Four minutes after the restart, Aleksandr Budanov was adjudged a penalty for bringing down a Lokomotiv man in the area and the spot was pointed to. New arrival from Dinamo Kiev Oleksandr Aliyev, stepped up and without a splinter of doubt drove the ball to the back of the net. The Samaran's problems grew only as four minutes later Renat Yanbayev was pulled down in the area and once again, Lokomotiv stepped to the spot. On this occasion Dmitri Sychev, who otherwise shone brightly through the match, pounded the ball in to give Lokomotiv the 2-0 lead. Three minutes later, Ukrainian international Oleksandr Aliyev demonstrated his notable set piece abilities as from a free kick he hammed the ball over the wall before dipping into the net. With the match effectively over, the complexion of the match changed and though the visitors did well going forward they were unable to break through as Lokomotiv Moskva claimed the 3-0 victory.
Spartak Moskva 1 Zenit Saint Petersburg 1
Sunday afternoon in the Rosgosstrakh Championship of Russia opened with the bitter Russian Derby, with Zenit Saint Petersburg scoring a late goal to play bitter rivals Spartak Moskva to a 1-1 draw at Petrovski Stadium.
After a disappointing opening week, which saw they lose to lose to Dinamo, Spartak came out the aggressor of the two. Without the services of Cristian Maidana, Martin Stranzl and Nikola Drinčić to injury, along with Aleksandr Sheshukov under suspension, Spartak manager Valeriy Karpin summoned teen phenom Pavel Yakovlev, Renat Sabitov, Marek Suchý and Ari into the starting eleven. The opening quarter-hour saw the hosts overrun as Spartak surged forward against Zenit that was clearly on its back-heels. After an Ibson effort rasped off the right post, Spartak went out in front 1-0 at the thirteenth minute, initiated from an Alex from the left. The former Internacional sent his dangerous effort into the box that Zenit 'keeper Vyacheslav Malafeev tried to parry but got tangled up with Marek Suchý and the ball bounded just to the left of the goal. Welliton immediately sent it the back post through a maze of bodies and though Sergei Parshivlyuk may have got a touch on it before it crossed the line, the striker got credit for the score. Regardless of who scored, the shot across the bow was clear as Spartak had the lead. The goal seemed to wake Luciano Spalletti’s side, albeit slowly, who otherwise up to this point was terribly lacking going forward. Danny began to slowly turn the screw with flanking assaults and midway of the half he sent a cross from the right by-line that Spartak 'keeper Soslan Dzhanayev swatted away, only to see Roman Shirokov force him into a second save. From this point, the story of much of the match became Spartak's young keeper as he consistently denied Zenit's advances. Spartak narrowly missed doubling its lead at the thirty-fourth minute when Alex sent a free kick from distance but with a final swerve, it went a shade wide. Seven minutes shy of the break, Danny sent Vladimir Bystrov the ball from the left side of the area, via an overhead kick but the Russian international who had otherwise been unaccounted for, saw his close range effort saved by Soslan Dzhanayev and the match went to the break with Spartak holding the 1-0 lead.
At the break, Luciano Spalletti called upon Danko Lazović for Szabolcs Huszti as they looked for more production on the left and the Serbian international had an immediate impact. Injecting pace and vision into the Zenit attack, the hosts started to control the run of play. Fed through the left channel from Danny, he nearly opened his Zent scoring log two minutes after the restart but his effort sailed a fraction over the bar. Moments later, Zenit narrowly missed levelling as Roman Shirokov headed Danny's free kick wide right. In back and forth action, Spartak pressed for the second goal, with Zenit 'keeper Vyacheslav Malafeev making a brilliant stop of Welliton's effort. Seven minutes past the hour Vladimir Bystrov led a powerful surge down the centre of pitch before sending the ball to Danko Lazović, who then crossed for Aleksandr Kerzhakov at the back post but once again the Spartak 'keeper rose to the occasion to stop the chance. With ten minutes, remaining Alessandro Rosina replaced Vladimir Bystrov and as expected, the Petrovski faithful still have yet to welcome him wholly. Chances were sparse as time ticked down but with a minute remaining in regulation time, Zenit grabbed the equalizer to the delight of their voracious supporters. Coming from the free kick to the right of the box, former Torino-man Alessandro Rosina sent a low cross in the box that Belgian international Nicolas Lombaerts headed into the net. After four minutes of added-time, the match concluded as a 1-1 draw, honours even.
Dinamo Moskva 0 CSKA Moskva 0
In the final match on Sunday, Dinamo continued their impressive start to the campaign with nil draw against CSKA, in the Moscow Derby at Arena Khimki. The score does not do justice to the White-Blues’ play as they controlled the majority of match, dictated the proceedings and greatly nullified the Army-Men’s attacking quadrant of Alan Dzagoev, Miloš Krasić, Tomáš Necid and Keisuke Honda.
Coming of their victory over Spartak in the opening week, Dinamo manager Andrey Kobelev summoned Aleksandr Kokorin into the starting eleven and the nineteen-year-old attacker was brilliant from start to finish. Pushing CSKA on its heels early, Dinamo posed a number of viscous assaults including at the twentieth minute when Aleksandr Kokorin laid the ball back to Igor Semshov but the veteran’s effort went just a morsel wide from twelve metres. Not deterred, the White-Blues tore forward with Aleksandr Kokorin sending a cross from the left by-line into the box that Kirill Kombarov re-directed off the bar from close range. Slowly, Leonid Slutsky's side began to show more confidence and just after the hour young Russian international Alan Dzagoev was played through by Miloš Krasić but saw his ensuing effort swatted away by Dinamo 'keeper Vladimir Gabulov. Six minutes shy of the break, Aleksandr Kokorin was once again at the root of Dinamo's advances, as his left wing cross to the back post saw CSKA 'keeper Igor Akinfeev maintain the deadlock with a superb stop from the resulting chance.
After the break, tempo slowed as CSKA looked to cull Dinamo's free ranging attacks. At the hour mark, Tomáš Necid sent an effort wide after being played through, only to see a reprieve via a late offside call. Quickly thereafter, Pavel Mamayev entered for Alan Dzagoev, who had lodged nearly nine kilometres at this stage. The Army-Men pushed forward with Miloš Krasić in a promising run but Vladimir Granat, who had just entered for Edgaras Česnauskis, made a brilliant tackle to halt his efforts. Pavel Mamayev's impact was quick as he sent a tantalizing cross into the box from the left wing that Tomáš Necid headed narrowly wide. Dinamo pushed back with Igor Akinfeev rising to the occasion as he defended an attacking onslaught following Luke Wilkshire's corner from the right. In the final ten minutes, Mr. Slutsky called Guilherme and Elvir Rahimić into the fray but Dinamo's resolute defending thwarted their efforts and the match concluded as a nil draw.
Still to play in a rare Monday afternoon contest, defending champions Rubin Kazan visit Tom Tomsk.
Prepared by J. Davies
©Joga Bonito Renegade Style, a division of Renegade Style Productions, 2010.
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Sunday, March 14, 2010
Dinamo defeat Spartak in heated Moscow Derby
The opening week of the 2010 Rosgosstrakh Championship of Russia campaign concluded with Dinamo edging Spartak 1-0 in an intense Moscow derby before a packed Luzhniki Stadium.
Though Spartak Moskva has been in the limelight as the top challenger to Rubin Kazan’s crown, Dinamo put forth an inspired performance that will have many wondering if the White-Blues could be the shocker of the year.
Dinamo Moskva manager Andrey Kobelev, bolstered with a revamped line-up that included Alexandru Epureanu, Aleksandr Samedov and Edgaras Česnauskis, all from FC Moskva, Igor Semshov and Andriy Voronin displayed a stubborn resolve and quality attacking vision. The best chance before the break came via Andriy Voronin, as at the thirty-ninth minute, the Ukrainian international charged into right side of the box before back-heel the ball to Aleksandr Samedov his effort was saved easily.
Both managers tinkered with their line-up after the break but the winning goal finally came at the seventy-second minute courtesy of veteran Igor Semshov. Latching onto the ball after a poorly cleared attempt on the left, Aleksandr Samedov moved to his right to the opposite side of the box. Distancing himself from Aleksandr Sheshukov his provision ricocheted off a Martin Stranzl, before coming off another Dinamo player and finally to the veteran to drove the ball to the far low corner of the net from ten metres. Alex nearly tied the match with a booming free kick but Dinamo ‘keeper Vladimir Gabulov fully stretched out to push the ball to safety. Spartak added Artem Dzyuba as an extra attacker, with Ari debuting for Krasno-belye late but neither could find a way through and Dinamo claimed the 1-0 victory.
Prepared by J. Davies
©Joga Bonito Renegade Style, a division of Renegade Style Productions, 2010.
All rights reserved
Though Spartak Moskva has been in the limelight as the top challenger to Rubin Kazan’s crown, Dinamo put forth an inspired performance that will have many wondering if the White-Blues could be the shocker of the year.
Dinamo Moskva manager Andrey Kobelev, bolstered with a revamped line-up that included Alexandru Epureanu, Aleksandr Samedov and Edgaras Česnauskis, all from FC Moskva, Igor Semshov and Andriy Voronin displayed a stubborn resolve and quality attacking vision. The best chance before the break came via Andriy Voronin, as at the thirty-ninth minute, the Ukrainian international charged into right side of the box before back-heel the ball to Aleksandr Samedov his effort was saved easily.
Both managers tinkered with their line-up after the break but the winning goal finally came at the seventy-second minute courtesy of veteran Igor Semshov. Latching onto the ball after a poorly cleared attempt on the left, Aleksandr Samedov moved to his right to the opposite side of the box. Distancing himself from Aleksandr Sheshukov his provision ricocheted off a Martin Stranzl, before coming off another Dinamo player and finally to the veteran to drove the ball to the far low corner of the net from ten metres. Alex nearly tied the match with a booming free kick but Dinamo ‘keeper Vladimir Gabulov fully stretched out to push the ball to safety. Spartak added Artem Dzyuba as an extra attacker, with Ari debuting for Krasno-belye late but neither could find a way through and Dinamo claimed the 1-0 victory.
Prepared by J. Davies
©Joga Bonito Renegade Style, a division of Renegade Style Productions, 2010.
All rights reserved
Alania Vladikavkaz holds Saturn to draw
Alania Vladikavkaz, did well in its return to the Rosgosstrakh Championship of Russia, as they held Saturn Moskovskaya Oblast to a 1-1 draw in front of their home supporters.
Andrey Gordeev's side from Ramenskoe were without the services of injured veterans Dmitri Loskov and Marko Topić, but managed to break through ten minutes after the opening whistle as Aleksei Ivanov latched onto a through ball on the right channel before sending it to the opposite corner of the net from nine metres. Alania fought back and at the twenty-third minute the highly promising Yuriy Kirillov, on-loan from Dinamo Moskva, sent his long distance drive into the back of the net, via a fortuitous deflection off a defender and looped into the net. Urged on by their supporters, Alania pushed for the winning mark but the match ended without further incident as a 1-1 draw, honours even.
Prepared by J. Davies
©Joga Bonito Renegade Style, a division of Renegade Style Productions, 2010.
All rights reserved
Andrey Gordeev's side from Ramenskoe were without the services of injured veterans Dmitri Loskov and Marko Topić, but managed to break through ten minutes after the opening whistle as Aleksei Ivanov latched onto a through ball on the right channel before sending it to the opposite corner of the net from nine metres. Alania fought back and at the twenty-third minute the highly promising Yuriy Kirillov, on-loan from Dinamo Moskva, sent his long distance drive into the back of the net, via a fortuitous deflection off a defender and looped into the net. Urged on by their supporters, Alania pushed for the winning mark but the match ended without further incident as a 1-1 draw, honours even.
Prepared by J. Davies
©Joga Bonito Renegade Style, a division of Renegade Style Productions, 2010.
All rights reserved
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
©Joga Bonito Renegade Style, a division of Renegade Style Productions, 2010.
All rights reserved
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
©Joga Bonito Renegade Style, a division of Renegade Style Productions, 2010.
All rights reserved
Terek Grozny defeats Sibir Novosibirsk
Chechnya-based Terek Grozny spoiled Sibir Novosibirsk's debut in the Rosgosstrakh Championship of Russia with 2-0 defeat at Spartak Stadium.
In a hard-fought match, Grozny took the lead at the fortieth minute as Andrei Kobenko, controlled Hector Bracamonte’s volley on the left side of the box before deftly sending the ball beyond the outstretched hands of Sibir goalkeeper Wojciech Kowalewski to the far corner of net.
Grozny doubled the lead four minutes shy of the hour when Shamil Asildarov continued his goal-scoring spree at Spartak Nalchik last year as he nodded in a volley from ten metres out. Sibir showed no quit and looked to cut the margin in half but Aleksei Medvedev’s goal was marked off with a dubious, late offside call. The Siberian's saw Denis Bukhryakov harshly shown his second yellow card at the eighty-seventh minute but regardless of the questionable call, the day belonged to Terek Grozny who left Siberia with a 2-0 victory.
Prepared by J. Davies
©Joga Bonito Renegade Style, a division of Renegade Style Productions, 2010.
All rights reserved
In a hard-fought match, Grozny took the lead at the fortieth minute as Andrei Kobenko, controlled Hector Bracamonte’s volley on the left side of the box before deftly sending the ball beyond the outstretched hands of Sibir goalkeeper Wojciech Kowalewski to the far corner of net.
Grozny doubled the lead four minutes shy of the hour when Shamil Asildarov continued his goal-scoring spree at Spartak Nalchik last year as he nodded in a volley from ten metres out. Sibir showed no quit and looked to cut the margin in half but Aleksei Medvedev’s goal was marked off with a dubious, late offside call. The Siberian's saw Denis Bukhryakov harshly shown his second yellow card at the eighty-seventh minute but regardless of the questionable call, the day belonged to Terek Grozny who left Siberia with a 2-0 victory.
Prepared by J. Davies
©Joga Bonito Renegade Style, a division of Renegade Style Productions, 2010.
All rights reserved
Sergei Kornilenko shines for Tom Tomsk
Unwanted in Zenit Saint-Petersburg, Sergei Kornilenko lead Tom Tomsk past Rostov 2-0 in the opening Saturday of the 2010 Rosgosstrakh Championship of Russia campaign.
The Belarusian international striker who possess bales of talent, returned to the Siberian side only a few days ago after rarely getting an opportunity in Saint Petersburg. However, he quickly made up for lost time and rewarded Tomsk manager Valeri Nepomniachi, as well as serve notice to the football world of his talents, with two goals.
After a scoreless opening half, Tomsk manager ushered in twenty-one year-old Andrei Ivanov in for Aleksandr Kharitonov and only a few minutes later he set-up the go-ahead goal. From the left flank the youngster, on-loan from Spartak Moskva, set a low cross beyond defender Sorin Ghionea that Sergei Kornilenko showed his finishing skills making now mistake from six metres to give Tomsk the 1-0 lead. With two minutes remaining, the striker added his second, taking the ball off defender Dušan Anđelković, before surging forward and driving it to the near corner of the net past ‘keeper Dejan Radić to seal the 2-0 victory.
Prepared by J. Davies
©Joga Bonito Renegade Style, a division of Renegade Style Productions, 2010.
All rights reserved
The Belarusian international striker who possess bales of talent, returned to the Siberian side only a few days ago after rarely getting an opportunity in Saint Petersburg. However, he quickly made up for lost time and rewarded Tomsk manager Valeri Nepomniachi, as well as serve notice to the football world of his talents, with two goals.
After a scoreless opening half, Tomsk manager ushered in twenty-one year-old Andrei Ivanov in for Aleksandr Kharitonov and only a few minutes later he set-up the go-ahead goal. From the left flank the youngster, on-loan from Spartak Moskva, set a low cross beyond defender Sorin Ghionea that Sergei Kornilenko showed his finishing skills making now mistake from six metres to give Tomsk the 1-0 lead. With two minutes remaining, the striker added his second, taking the ball off defender Dušan Anđelković, before surging forward and driving it to the near corner of the net past ‘keeper Dejan Radić to seal the 2-0 victory.
Prepared by J. Davies
©Joga Bonito Renegade Style, a division of Renegade Style Productions, 2010.
All rights reserved
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