Ciuperca pounces to get Tambov off the mark

FC Tambov 1-0 FC Khimki
Tuesday 18 August, Mordovia Arena

Goal: Tambov - Valeriu Ciuperca (14)

Man of the Match: Sergey Rykhikov (FC Tambov)

Sent off: Tambov - Aleksey Gritsaenko (39)

Valeriu Ciuperca took advantage of some defensive confusion to poke home the only goal of the game from six yards out, virtually unchallenged. The hosts’ task was made easier towards the end of the first half when Aleksey Gritsaenko was caught elbowing his marker after a VAR review and duly shown a red card.

Despite Tambov’s numerical disadvantage, Vladimir Obukhov had a glorious chance to double their lead just after half time, but he slipped when taking a penalty and skied his effort over the bar.

FC Tambov pick up their first three points of the campaign, while FC Khimki remain on one point.

FC Tambov are away to champions Zenit St. Petersburg next on Saturday 22 August, while FC Khimki host Akhmat Grozny on the same day.