RFS vs Valmiera Match Review

A massive 1-0 away win for Valmiera against RFS as they are off to a flying start this season with two wins from two games. A disappointing result for the 2023 Virsliga champions RFS as they had 62% ball possession as well as playing at home in front of a full stadium at the LNK Sporta Parks.

Meissa Diop celebrates after scoring against RFS
Image Source: Valmiera FC Facebook Page

The hosts started well with 10 minutes into the match, Serbian forward Darko Lemajić had a shot just outside the penalty box, which was saved by Carlos Olses. Three minutes later RFS had another opportunity as Roberts Savaļnieks made a brilliant pass to Lemajić from the back to the other side of the pitch which went past multiple players. Lemajić then ran into the penalty box however Valmiera captain Daniels Balodis made a key tackle which prevented a goal scoring opportunity for RFS.

In the 25th minute the visitors took the lead as Djibril Guèye started a counter attack by dribbling past Savaļnieks and Emerson in their half. Guèye then passed the ball to Senegalese midfielder Meissa Diop, who dribbled past the last two defenders (Žiga Lipušček & Herdi Prenga) and scored a one on one past RFS keeper Jevgēņijs Ņerugals. That equaliser was Diop’s first ever Virsliga goal for Valmiera.

Guèye and Prenga clash after a foul during the match.
Image Source: Valmiera FC Facebook Page

12 minutes after the 2nd half began, the hosts had a huge chance to tie the match as Savaļnieks corner kick went to Stefan Panić who headed the ball towards the goal. Ivorian forward Cedric Kouadio was right next to the post of the goal, however he barely touched the ball as hit the post. Kouadio had another huge chance to level the score as in the 78th minute he was able to dribble past Balodis in the penalty box, however his shot went just wide of the post.

Although Valmiera manager Jurģis Kalns is pleased to start the first two Virsliga games with 6 points, he states that the season is just getting started. Kalns also adds that the team have to prepare for the next fixture against Riga FC on March 31st, which will be another title race battle. RFS manager Viktors Morozs said that Valmiera's goal was a "tactical mistake" which cost them three points. RFS will aim to get back to winning ways as their next fixture is away to FK Liepāja on March 30th. 

Valmiera's squad applaud the travelling supports after the match
Image Source: Valmiera FC Facebook Page