Liepāja Secures Victory in Season Opener
The 2022 Optibet latvian Football Super League kicked off on Friday with a thrilling match between Liepāja and Super Nova. Playing on their home turf, Liepāja emerged victorious with a final score of 3-1 (1-1).
From the outset, Liepāja dominated the game, launching a series of aggressive attacks. Their persistence paid off in the second ten minutes when Dodo’s defense expertly launched a long ball through the center. Kristaps Zommers skillfully controlled the ball and passed it too Pavlo Martiness, who expertly slotted it into the net, giving Liepāja an early 1-0 lead.
Super Nova responded swiftly, equalizing the score less than a minute later. Vladimirs Stepanovs orchestrated a beautiful play, threading the ball through several Liepāja defenders to Ričards Rullis, who calmly finished from close range.
The second half saw Liepāja regain control. In the 72nd minute, Hogans Ukpa delivered a stunning volley from the right wing, finding the back of the net after the ball deflected off Super Nova defender Yevgeny Minin.
Artūrs Karašausks sealed the victory for Liepāja in the closing minutes, unleashing a powerful long-range shot that left the Super Nova goalkeeper with no chance.
This win marks a promising start for Liepāja, who secured a bronze medal in the Super League last year, their first podium finish since 2017. Super Nova, making their debut in the top league after a prosperous campaign in the Optibet Future League, will be looking to learn from this experience.
The opening weekend of the Super League saw other exciting matchups. Riga faced off against Valmiera, Jūrmala Spartaks took on RFS, while Daugavpils battled Tukums 2000/Telms and Metta clashed with Auda.
Ten teams are vying for the championship title this season. Last year, RFS clinched their first-ever super League title, while Valmiera secured the runner-up spot and liepāja claimed the bronze medal. Riga, the reigning champions for the previous three seasons, finished fourth.
The 2022 Super League season promises to be fiercely competitive, with teams battling it out over four rounds from March 11th to November 13th.
Liepāja’s Triumph: A Conversation with Former Latvian International Juris Laizans
The 2022 Optibet Latvian Football Super League season kicked off with a bang as Liepāja snatched a 3-1 victory over newcomers Super Nova.This thrilling encounter, coupled with other exciting clashes, has ignited anticipation for a fiercely competitive season. Today, we’re joined by former Latvian international and respected football analyst Juris Laizans to delve into the opening week’s action.
Moderator: Juris, welcome to the show. Liepāja’s win was a statement of intent. What were your thoughts on their performance?
juris Laizans: It was a strong showing from Liepāja. They dominated the early exchanges, displaying the attacking prowess we’ve come to expect. Dodo’s long ball to set up the first goal was textbook football, and the interplay between Zommers and Martiness showcased their understanding. Super Nova’s resilience was commendable, but liepāja’s experience shone through in the second half.
Moderator: Super Nova, on the other hand, were making their Super League debut. Did their performance surprise you?
Juris Laizans: Not entirely. They showed glimpses of quality, particularly in their equalizing goal. Rullis displayed composure beyond his years, finishing clinically. However, the step up to the Super League is considerable. They need to find consistency and defensive solidity if they want to challenge the top teams. This season is an invaluable learning experience for them.
Moderator: Looking at the bigger picture,can Liepāja challenge for the title this year?
Juris laizans: Absolutely. They’ve shown they have the firepower and tactical discipline to compete with the best.Last year’s bronze medal was a breakthrough,and this year they appear even more determined. Of course,Riga and Valmiera will be formidable opponents,but Liepāja shouldn’t be ruled out.
Moderator: You mentioned Riga. They’ve dominated the league in recent years, but finished fourth last season. Do you think their reign is over?
Juris Laizans: It’s too early to say. Every team goes through cycles. Riga has a strong squad and experienced manager. They’ll undoubtedly be hungry to bounce back. Though, the competition is intensifying, and teams like Valmiera and Liepāja are pushing them hard.
Moderator: this season looks set to be a nail-biter. What are your predictions for the title race?
Juris Laizans: I see it as a three-way battle between Riga, Valmiera, and Liepāja.RFS will also be in the mix, but I think those three have the edge. It’s going to be exciting to see how it unfolds!
Moderator: We’ll definitely be following the action closely.Juris, thank you for sharing your insights.
(To the readers)
what are your thoughts on the opening weekend? Who do you think will be crowned champions this year? Let us know in the comments below! Let’s keep this football conversation alive!
