LOSKOV TO LEAD LOKOMOTIV AGAINST TOM

Charging into the final third of the campaign, the Rosgosstrakh Championship of Russia returns to play this weekend in match-day twenty-one and a series of crucial contests. While Zenit Saint Petersburg looks to be sailing clear to the victor’s podium, the race could not be tighter for berths on the European stage.


The action gets underway Saturday as Rashid Rakhimov’s Amkar Perm welcomes Krylya Sovetov in a relegation battle of enormous importance. The Samaran’s lodged their first victory this year under manager Alexandr Tarkhanov last week in a shocking upset of Nalchik but have otherwise been a highly disciplined unit since he returned for his third stint with the club. The arrival of Pavel Yakovlev, on loan from Spartak, could be the masterstroke that saves them from relegation, as the young gun is capable of providing the attacking impetus that has been lacking. While Amkar Perm sits four points above the drop zone, Rashid Rakhimov’s Red-Black unit is far from inspiring. Last week they were run roughshod by Rubin Kazan and will need production on the road if they are to escape relegation. However, in their Ural Mountain home they have proven to be a tough competitor with two consecutive victories and will the need the same resolve in this strategically important contest.

Alaniya Vladikavkazv welcomes European hopefuls Rostov after last weeks stunning added-time rally to defeat Sibir Novosibirsk. Vladimir Shevchuk’s side looked to be heading defeat, a costly loss that would have seen their relegation fears heighten but otherwise making steady improvement since the break. Rostov’s surprising race towards a spot in Europe sees them at the fifth spot after edging Anzhi Makhachkala last week in a disciplined display. Oleh Protasov has reworked his tactical plan and over the last six engagements, his side have been a tight defending unit that has surrendered only two goals. That aside, Rostov’s once potent flanking assault has been lacking and will need to produce if they are win premier spot in Europe

In the final match of Saturday, coming off their loss to Spartak, Saturn Moskovskaya Oblast entertains Dynamo Moscow to nearby Ramenskoe. The celebrations of July are in the past as Andrey Gordeev’s side have a scant point to show for the last four contests and need to gut out some results or they will feel the heat of the bottom of the table. He will further be without the services of Ruslan Nakhushev, Vadim Evseev and Benoît Angbwa, all out to due to card build-up. Saturn will need veterans Dmitriy Kirichenko, Andrey Karyaka and Denis Boyarintsev to step up against Dynamo if they are to be victorious. The White-Blues might be the anomaly of the league as despite possessing scores of talent, seem to under perform and lack confidence. At some stage, Dynamo will surely boil over and begin to play to their ability and the pedigree of Andriy Voronin and Kevin Kurányi shine through. Miodrag Božović’s men overcame Terek Grozny last week but there is still considerable room for growth. He will be without the surfaces of Andriy Voronin, under suspension, presumably resulting in Martin Jakubko getting a chance to star against his former teammates.

Prepared by John Davies


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SATURN VS DYNAMO HIGHLIGHT SATURDAY

Charging into the final third of the campaign, the Rosgosstrakh Championship of Russia returns to play this weekend in match-day twenty-one and a series of crucial contests. While Zenit Saint Petersburg looks to be sailing clear to the victor’s podium, the race could not be tighter for berths on the European stage.


The action gets underway Saturday as Rashid Rakhimov’s Amkar Perm welcomes Krylya Sovetov in a relegation battle of enormous importance. The Samaran’s lodged their first victory this year under manager Alexandr Tarkhanov last week in a shocking upset of Nalchik but have otherwise been a highly disciplined unit since he returned for his third stint with the club. The arrival of Pavel Yakovlev, on loan from Spartak, could be the masterstroke that saves them from relegation, as the young gun is capable of providing the attacking impetus that has been lacking. While Amkar Perm sits four points above the drop zone, Rashid Rakhimov’s Red-Black unit is far from inspiring. Last week they were run roughshod by Rubin Kazan and will need production on the road if they are to escape relegation. However, in their Ural Mountain home they have proven to be a tough competitor with two consecutive victories and will the need the same resolve in this strategically important contest.

Alaniya Vladikavkazv welcomes European hopefuls Rostov after last weeks stunning added-time rally to defeat Sibir Novosibirsk. Vladimir Shevchuk’s side looked to be heading defeat, a costly loss that would have seen their relegation fears heighten but otherwise making steady improvement since the break. Rostov’s surprising race towards a spot in Europe sees them at the fifth spot after edging Anzhi Makhachkala last week in a disciplined display. Oleh Protasov has reworked his tactical plan and over the last six engagements, his side have been a tight defending unit that has surrendered only two goals. That aside, Rostov’s once potent flanking assault has been lacking and will need to produce if they are win premier spot in Europe

In the final match of Saturday, coming off their loss to Spartak, Saturn Moskovskaya Oblast entertains Dynamo Moscow to nearby Ramenskoe. The celebrations of July are in the past as Andrey Gordeev’s side have a scant point to show for the last four contests and need to gut out some results or they will feel the heat of the bottom of the table. He will further be without the services of Ruslan Nakhushev, Vadim Evseev and Benoît Angbwa, all out to due to card build-up. Saturn will need veterans Dmitriy Kirichenko, Andrey Karyaka and Denis Boyarintsev to step up against Dynamo if they are to be victorious. The White-Blues might be the anomaly of the league as despite possessing scores of talent, seem to under perform and lack confidence. At some stage, Dynamo will surely boil over and begin to play to their ability and the pedigree of Andriy Voronin and Kevin Kurányi shine through. Miodrag Božović’s men overcame Terek Grozny last week but there is still considerable room for growth. He will be without the surfaces of Andriy Voronin, under suspension, presumably resulting in Martin Jakubko getting a chance to star against his former teammates.

Prepared by John Davies


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LOKOMOTIV VS. DYNAMO BATTLE IN CRITICAL MOSCOW DERBY

Sunday in matchday eighteen of the Rosgosstrakh Championship of Russia opens with a relegation battle as Sibir Novosibirsk welcomes Amkar Perm to Siberia with Igor Kriushenko's side slipping further and further away from the top flight.


While they showed well against Nalchik last week and managed a shock late victory over PSV in the Europa League, the Siberian’s have considerable ground on the table and is in need of a victory. Last week, Rashid Rakhimov's Red-Black's ended its four-match losing streak with a 1-0 victory over Alaniya Vladikavkazv but otherwise are not playing with confidence. Amkar's tough defending stance will be tested by the Siberians free wheeling assault.

In the highlight match of the day, Lokomotiv faces another crucial Moscow Derby this week, this against Dynamo at Arena Khimki with both sides in dire need of a win. Against Spartak last week, the Railwayman's attack lacked consistency and Yuriy Semin has yet to see his side win on the road this year. The Lokomotiv mastermind welcomes Dmitriy Torbinsky back after suspension but he has lost both Tomislav Dujmović, to Dynamo and Peter Odemwingie to English Premier League side West Brom this past week. Without a win in four contests, the Railwayman have drifted well off course and must see greater attacking pulse from other than Oleksandr Aliyev or they will miss out on a spot in Europe.

Dynamo continues to reshape itself under Miodrag Božović with the arrival of Kevin Kurányi and now Martin Jakubko and if they do not turn around shortly, will be playing for next season. The White-Blues suffered through an abysmal start last week against Zenit but thanks to goalkeeper Vladimir Gabulov they were able to sustain the assault and grab a draw. The White-Blues are without Dmitriy Khokhlov due to suspension but otherwise need to show greater confidence going forward. Andriy Voronin continues to show tremendous leadership but Dynamo needs, as a whole, to not show fear in the attack.

Defending champions Rubin Kazan welcome Saturn Moskovskaya Oblast to Central Stadium coming off an unsatisfying draw with Terek Grozny. Last week Rubin manager Kurban Berdyev ushered new arrival from Sibir Novosibirsk Alexey Medvedev and after the break paired him the clubs major summer acquisition, former Newcastle striker Oba Martins. In combination with the new arrivals and the rapidly emerging Alan Kasaev, Rubin will possess an imposing attack once they gel. César Navas and Rafał Murawski are unavailable due to suspension.

Andrey Gordeev's Ramenskoe-based side meteoric rise up the table was halted last week by Rostov but they continue to play with a complete different vision that prior to the break. Veteran Dmitriy Kirichenko is enjoying a renaissance and a consistent threat going forward. Saturn is without Ruslan Nakhushev but otherwise fully-fit.

In the final match of the day Anzhi Makhachkala visits Alaniya Vladikavkaz. Coming off his sides humiliating 4-0 loss to CSKA, Anzhi manager Gadzhi Gadzhiev will be looking for a disciplined defending display. Anzhi has had a lot of problems away from home and need to reverse this trend as they are gradually being pulled back into the relegation battle. Alaniya overwhelmed Amkar for much of the day last week lacked finishing in route to a 1-0 loss. Manager Vladimir Shevchuk is without Aslan Mashukov and looking for greater service to young gun Alexandr Marenich.

Prepared by John Davies

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NALCHIK AND ROSTOV IN CRUCIAL FRIDAY NIGHT BATTLE

Week Eighteen of Rosgosstrakh Championship of Russia opens with a Friday evening battle that could have enormous implications on the race for a spot in Europe as Rostov welcomes fourth place Spartak Nalchik.


Whilst the attention has been on the likes of CSKA and Rubin fighting it out for the second spot, Yuriy Krasnozhan's Nalchik side have crept to within two points of a Champions League spot and Rostov is not backing down. The two upstarts sit at fourth and fifth in the table and as the campaign nears the final stretch run have a distinct possibility at grabbing a spot in Europe.

Oleh Protasov's Rostov have continued to play an up-tempo style and after a brief dip against Zenit and Dynamo have found their footing with three consecutive victories. Roman Adamov continues to produce with Alexandr Pavlenko a consistent force going forward. Rostov's lone absence is Dragan Blatnjak and Nalchik should expect their hosts to be patient and unwilling to expose themselves in the counter.

Nalchik is undoubtedly one of the season's great surprises and at the root of their success is the work of David Siradze and Vladimir Dyadyun. Nalchik's counter attacks have wreaked havoc on many this year with those two particularly dangerous. Manager Yuriy Krasnozhan has a fully fit line-up available to him and knows that a victory would propel his side to second and continue their push towards the Champions League.

Prepared by John Davies
... but nothing matches the thrill and challenge of having money on the line!

LOKOMOTIV WELCOMES SPARTAK IN MOSCOW DERBY

On Sunday, of week seventeen of the Championship of Russia all eyes will be poised on the final match of the day as Spartak visits Lokomotiv in a Moscow Derby of epic proportion.

The day kicks off with Alaniya Vladikavkaz versus relegation threatened Amkar Perm. Alaniya shocked Nalchik last week with manager Vladimir Shevchuk deploying a much more attack minded set. Amkar is in the midst of a four-match losing streak and only a point above Krylya Sovetov in the relegation zone. Rashid Rakhimov’s anaemic attack needs to find its scoring form but without playmaker Georgiy Peev, out due to injury, their advances have trickled.

Defending champions Rubin Kazan travels to Terek Grozny looking to maintain pressure on the field in pursuit of a Champions League berth. While Zenit possesses a seven-point margin, as well as an additional match to play, Rubin manager Kurban Berdyev has struck gold with the recent signings of former Newcastle striker Oba Martins and Alexey Medvedev. Grozny fell to Rostov last week in a hard fought battle and it is clear that with Blagoy Georgiev their attacking has slowed. Possibly more concerning is the lack of finishing from strikers, forcing Anatoly Baidachny to try a number of combinations.

Of strategic importance CSKA Moscow welcomes Anzhi Makhachkala to Arena Khimki with the Army-Men needing to maintain focus, less then give up more ground in the race. Leonid Slutsky’s new arrivals, Zoran Tosic and Seydou Doumbia, have been brilliant with Vágner Love not missing a beat since returning to the capital. Alan Dzagoev continues to mature into a rising star of the future, particularly from a centralist position but CSKA needs to remain its composure against Anzhi or they will be shocked. Veteran leader Gadzhi Gadzhiev has the Dagestan side in fine form and will deploy a tight, compact stance and look to thwart CSKA’s mercurial attack

In the premier match of the weekend, Spartak visits Lokomotiv in Moscow derby with both sides needing to maintain pace with Nalchik and Rostov for a spot in Europe. Spartak is deeply troubled at eighth in the table but have recently added Nicolás Pareja, from Espanyol and Aiden McGeady from Celtic, with Kirill Kombarov and Dmitriy Kombarov rumoured to be on their way from Dynamo. On the opposite end of the pitch, Lokomotiv mastermind Yuriy Semin welcomes back Oleksandr Aliyev after last week’s abysmal draw against the Samarans. He will be without Tomislav Dujmovic and Dmitriy Torbinski who were both shown red-cards. Both sides are in dire need of a victory, knowing a favourable result could propel their campaign forward, making this derby a heavyweight battle not to be missed.

Prepared by John Davies


... but nothing matches the thrill and challenge of having money on the line!

ZENIT VS DYNAMO CLASH HIGHLIGHTS SATURDAY

After an abbreviated schedule last week, the Rosgosstrakh Championship of Russia returns this weekend with a crucial series of contests in match day seventeen.


While Zenit Saint Petersburg would need a cataclysmic turn of fortune to overturn their undefeated season, slowly the story is turning to Nalchik and Rostov who have moved into the fourth and fifth spots and threatening for a spot in Europe.

The weekend kicks off Saturday as Krylya Sovetov visits Tom Tomsk. The Samaran's have managed three hard earned draws against Spartak, Dynamo and Lokomotiv in successive weeks and under the leadership of Alexandr Tarkhanov, they are beginning to look very much like a side capable of avoiding relegation.

Tom Tomsk are seventh in the table and not given up hopes for Europe. Manager Valeriy Nepomniachi has helped develop Artyom Dzyuba, on-loan from Spartak Moscow, into one of the top young strikers in Russia with the youngster lodging four goals since the break. The Siberian's must expect a tight defending resolve from Krylya Sovetov and they will need to make the most of their opportunities.

In the second match of the day, the Petrovsky faithful welcome Dynamo Moscow as Zenit Saint Petersburg looks to maintain their unbeaten form. Zenit, who saw last weeks pivotal contest against Spartak postponed are ploughing towards the title without seemingly a bump. Under manager Luciano Spalletti, Zenit is composed and since the break has asserted a new-found attacking authority.

Recent additions Bruno Alves, Alexandr Bukharov and Sergey Semak confirm Zenit's lofty goals in Europe and they have rarely looked threatened on the domestic front. Dynamo continues to reshape itself under Miodrag Bozovic with the arrival of Kevin Kurányi and expected departure of Dmitriy and Krill Kombarov. The White-Blue's have looked miserable on the road with a scant win in seven contests and will need to show significantly better finishing against Zenit if they are to return home with points.

Relegation threatened Sibir Novosibirsk travels to face Spartak Nalchik with Igor Kriushenko's side in dire straights after the sale of skipper Alexey Medvedev. Without the clubs leading goal scorer, the likes of Igor Shevchenko and Alexandr Antipenko will need to come up big. Yuriy Krasnozhan's Nalchik side is improbably within two points of a Champions League spot but in need of a response after Alaniya Vladikavkaz upset them last week. Undefeated at home, Vladimir Dyadyun has emerged as an attacking tour de force and at the root of Nalchik’s attacking success.

In the final match of the day Saturn Moskovskaya Oblast welcomes Rostov in an unexpected battle of epic proportions. The Ramenskoe-based side is the hottest in the league, whilst Rostov is staring down the gullet of a spot in Europe. Likewise, with four consecutive victories Andrey Gordeev's men has not only pushed aside relegation worries but with striking distance of a European berth. Both sides have shown recently an up-tempo form and the contest harkens to be a fast- paced affair.

Prepared by John Davies


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PREMIER LEAGUE WEEK 15 PREDICTIONS

Today weekend predictions are made by former Spartak Moscow forward Valeriy Reingold and sport press journalist Pavel Aleshin.


Saturn vs. Anzhi

Expert predictions: 2:0 After the break Saturn has definitely improved. The players started to run and the team acquired nice play.

Sport press predictions: 2:0 Saturn is superior over any opponent even CSKA after the summer break. And Anzhi will hardly have the same good luck in Ramenskoe as they had in the match against Terek.

Spartak Nalchik vs. Amkar

Expert predictions: 2:0 In the match against CSKA Nalchik impressed me a lot. They show active football in contrast to Amkar.

Sport press predictions: 2:0 Both teams have well-formed play with the only difference that Nalchik has it to the goal and Perm only to the box.

Zenit vs. Rubin

Expert predictions: 1:0 If Zenit wins we can finish the championship. I mean that the golden medals will have its owners. Still I prefer Saint Petersburg who play aggressively and disciplined. I do not think Rubin will be able to hold thanks to their defensive line.

Sport press predictions: 0:0 The defence of Rubin is probably the only one that Zenit will not be able to open.

Terek vs. Alaniya

Expert predictions: 1:0 Though Terek’s play is not smooth one can easily see their potentials. And it is a home game after the loss to Anzhi.

Sport press predictions: 2:1 Grozny club should outscore Alaniya after the undeserved defeat to Anzhi.

Dynamo vs. Krylya Sovetov

Expert predictions: 3:0 I predict big victory of Dynamo not because the Moscow club plays so well but because Krylya show nothing.

Sport press predictions: 2:0 The surge of emotions caused by the debut of the new head of Krylya Alexandr Tarkhanov will be annulled with the debut of Kevin Kuranyi in Dynamo. In other aspects Muscovites are stronger than Samara.

Spartak vs. CSKA

Expert predictions: 0:1 Of course the current CSKA is not much stronger than Spartak as it used to be some time ago but nevertheless the class of the Army men is higher. What can Spartak oppose? Only desire and fight. But there are not many fighters among the Red-White squad at the moment.

Sport press predictions: 3:1 The quantity of missed opportunities is so great in Spartak that according to a mathematical law the converting percentage should rise. Moreover Spartak seemed to have found their game while CSKA dozed off in the abnormally hot Moscow.

Lokomotiv vs. Rostov

Expert predictions: 2:0 Lokomotiv has many problems in away matches but in Moscow they play nicely and effectively. Rostov simply has nothing to oppose to the Railway men.

Sport press predictions: 2:1 Lokomotiv should retain its minimum after the break – two scored goals. But Rostov will also see a consolation goal.

Tom vs. Sibir

Expert predictions: 0:0 The teams are absolutely equal. Maybe Tom is more experienced but Sibir showed its character recently and it can do it in Tomsk as well.

Sport press predictions: 3:2 Tom should do well in the match with one of the outsiders. But Sibir usually does not end up goalless.


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MOSCOW DERBY HIGHLIGHTS SUNDAY PROGRAM

On Sunday, Luzhniki is the stage for the great Moscow derby between Spartak and CSKA with both sides needing to find their winning form after disappointing last week.


Spartak Moscow - CSKA Moscow

Valeriy Karpin’s side was held by Krylya Sovetov to a scoreless draw with the Zhano Ananidze led attack, lacking finishing power. Spartak’s season is limping through some difficult times and will greater resolve going forward, presumably with Alex to return in spearheading the attack.

Leonid Slutsky CSKA’s line-up lacked a cutting side against Nalchik last week and consistently out worked. CSKA face a number of personnel issues with young striker Guilherme returning to Dynamo Kyiv after the clubs were unable to reach an agreement. To add to CSKA’s problems, Keisuke Honda is rumoured to be out of favour with the manager, hence why he was left out of last week’s starting grid and Miloš Krasić, desperate for a move to Juventus, has shown little recent play.

Lokomotiv Moscow – Rostov

Yuriy Semin’s Railwaymen looked to be in route to an away victory before Sibir Novosibirsk staged a stunning second half comeback. Oleksandr Aliyev continues to dominate with his thunderous boot but Lokomotiv will need to show greater defending composure than last week. Maicon and Dmitriy Sychev have the makings of a solid attacking duo with Wágner supplying his playmaking vision. Rostov manager Oleh Protasov has his side within striking distance of a European spot but faces a massive challenge in Lokomotiv home grounds where their hosts has lost only once since Yuriy Semin’s return in May 2009.

Tom Tomsk – Sibir Novosibirsk

On Monday, action in week fifteen concludes with a Siberian derby as Tom Tomsk welcomes Sibir Novosibirsk. Valeriy Nepomnyaschy’s Tomsk has faltered since the break with off with three consecutive losses since the break and lacking in the defending end. Sibir were triumphant in the Europa League.

Manager Igor Kriushenko has a tough series of selection decision we with the second leg of their tie against Apollon on Thursday, they may be forced into changes.

Prepared by John Davies

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PREMIER LEAGUE DAY 15 KICKS OFF TODAY

Premier League Matchday 15 kicks off today with Anzhi traveling to Moscow region and Spartak Nalchik welcoming Amkar.


Saturn Moskovskaya Oblast - Anzhi Makhachkala

On Friday, the action kicks off as Andrey Gordeev's Ramenskoe based side welcome Anzhi Makhachkala after lodging two consecutive wins have climbed out the relegation zone. Lead by an inspired effort by veterans Dmitriy Kirichenko and Denis Boyarintsev, Saturn which looked set for the drop have turned the campaign around.

Veteran leader Gadzhi Gadzhiev has Anzhi running on all cylinders, claiming three consecutive win including last weeks against Terek Grozny that came via David Tsorayev’s last winner.

Spartak Nalchik - Amkar Perm

Rashid Rakhimov’s Amkar Perm was edged by Saturn Moskovskaya Oblast via an early goal by Denis Boyarintsev but otherwise the Red-Black’s showed quality intent. In the latter stages, Amkar's Vitaliy Grishin narrowly missed scoring the leveller as his effort from just outside the area drifted a whisper wide of the right post.

Nalchik shocked CSKA last week, throwing the championship race completely into Zenit’s hands. Yuriy Krasnozhan has a full side available including Dmitriy Belorukov, who returns from suspension.

Prepared by John Davies

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ZENIT REMAINS UNBEATEN WITH WIN OVER ROSTOV

Week fourteen of the Rosgosstrakh Championship of Russia commenced on Saturday with Zenit Saint Petersburg extended its unbeaten form, laying further pressure on the field to stay abreast of their charge.


Alaniya Vladikavkaz - Tom Tomsk 2:1

The weekend got underway with Alaniya Vladikavkaz coming from the behind to defeat visiting Tom Tomsk 2-1.

Following their disheartening loss to Lokomotiv Moscow, Vladimir Shevchuk made four changes to his Alaniya line-up, bringing in Yuriy Kirillov, former CSKA Sofia-man Ivan Stoyanov, Boris Rotenberg and Ibrahim Gnanou. Valeriy Nepomnyaschy, who saw his side run roughshod by Anzhi last week, moved Artyom Dzyuba to the bench and brought in Georgiy Dzhioev and Kim Nam-Ilas he went with Belarusian international Sergey Kornilenko as the lone striker up top.

The match began with a well-disciplined start as neither side wanted to give up too much space. A morsel shy of the quarter-hour, Tomsk drew first blood as Ibrahim Gnanou brought down by Sergey Kornilenko as the striker surged into the area on the left channel, resulting in match day referee Maxim Layushkin adjudging a penalty. The Belarusian striker calmly stepped up and drilled the ball into the back of the net to give Tomsk the 1-0 lead.

After the restart, Alaniya began to probe with greater effectiveness and at the fifty-ninth minute Alexandr Marenich latched onto a long ball before surging into the area on the left channel and rocketing his effort in from twelve metres. Within two minutes, Valeriy Nepomnyaschy summoned Artyom Dzyuba into the Tomsk line-up with Andrey Ivanov coming shortly thereafter but with twenty minutes remaining, Alaniya notched the winning goal as Ibrahim Gnanou heading in a corner from the right. The balance of the contest was completely in Alaniya's favour as they laid claim to the full three points with a 2-1 victory.

Rostov - Zenit Saint Petersburg 1:3

Top to the table Zenit Saint Petersburg continued its recent upsurge with an assuring 3-1 victory over host Rostov.

The Italian tactician, ahead his sides opening Champions League qualifier against Romania's Unirea Urziceni on Tuesday, made four changes to his most recent lineup. Former FC Moscow man Yuriy Zhevnov made his first start in a league match for Zenit as Vyacheslav Malafeev away tending to personal matters, along with Viktor Faitzulin, Fernando Meira and Alessandro Rosina.

Behind the support of their voracious supporters, Oleh Protasov's side, after an early advance by Zenit, began to press forward with Alexandru Gaţcan testing Yuriy Zhevnov from the edge of the area. Rostov was holding Zenit back but just before the break, Alessandro Rosina surged down the right channel and sent a cross to the back-post as he approached the dead-ball line that Alexandr Kerzhakov turned in for the 1-0 lead.

At the re-start, Oleh Protasov ushered Alexandr Pavlenko in for Dmitriy Akimov but only five minutes in Zenit extended the lead when Danny latched on the long ball before scoring from the edge of the area. Zenit continued their onslaught and with twenty minutes remaining, went in front 3-0 as Danny, via a flanking long ball on the left, cross for Viktor Faitzulin who scored his first goal of the campaign from ten metres. As time ticked down, match day referee Alexandr Kolobaev assessing a penalty when Alexandr Anyukov brought down Igor Lebedenko was brought down in the area. In the ensuing effort, Igor Lebedenko drove the ball to the bottom right corner for the consolation marker, with Zenit Saint Petersburg claiming the 3-1 victory.

Rubin Kazan - Dynamo Moscow 2:0

Rubin Kazan maintained pace with league leaders Zenit Saint Petersburg with a 2-0 victory over visiting Dynamo Moscow, in a match that marked the debut the White-Blues highly promising young attacker Irakli Logua.

Kurban Berdyev’s Rubin Kazan side, awaiting the debut of former Newcastle striker Oba Martin's and without Alexandr Bukharov for the first time since his move to Zenit, summoned Petr Bystrov, Macbeth Sibaya and Rafal Murawski into the starting eleven. Miodrag Božović adjusted his Dynamo line-up with Alexandr Kokorin coming in for Andriy Voronin who suffered an injury in pre-match warm-up and Aleksey Rebko. After a quiet opening half whether neither side able to post a noteworthy effort, Rubin took the lead five minutes shy of the hour as on fast counter Alan Kasaev surged into the right side of the area before sending the ball into the roof of the net from six metres out. Only nine minutes later, the goal scorer added his second of the evening as he surged worked his way off the left flank, out manoeuvring three Dynamo defenders before sending a booming effort from just outside the area into the back of the net. With twenty-one minutes remaining, Miodrag Božović introduced attacker Irakli Logua in for his debut of the top flight and though the teen phenom did not have an impact, he is name to watch in the future. Through the balance of time, Rubin limited Dynamo's advances, in route to a 2-0 victory.

Prepared by John Davies for Sport Express

... but nothing matches the thrill and challenge of having money on the line!

SPARTAK VS. RUBIN SHOWDOWN HIGHLIGHT OF WEEK 13 IN RPL

As play heads into week thirteen of the Rosgosstrakh Championship of Russia, Zenit Saint Petersburg is quickly running away from the pack and on the verge of turning the race for a charge for second place. However, this weekend the key match is unquestionably Rubin Kazan’s visit to the capital to face Spartak, with the Krasno-belye’s season slowly slipping away.


Saturday

Zenit St Petersburg - Sibir Novosibirsk

The Petrovsky faithful welcome their heroes after their complete domination of Alaniya Vladikavkaz last week. Though Zenit has went through a long period of adaptation to manager Luciano Spalletti's system, against Alaniya they finally found their top gear and were unstoppable. With Serbian international Danko Lazović back in the fold the pace of the Zenit attack is capable of overrunning the competition and its difficult to foresee a stumble.

Sibir manager Igor Kriushenko has seen his side show a superb fighting spirit in their fight to avoid relegation, typified by last weeks 2-2 draw against Dynamo. Lead by veteran sniper Aleksey Medvedev and some impressive play by Aleksandr Antipenko, Sibir has shown a good counter attacking impetus but against Zenit, they will look to button down the proceedings with a compact defending approach though they will be without Dmitriy Molosh due to suspension.

Dynamo Moscow - Rostov

The White-Blues welcome Rostov to Arena Khimki after last weeks highly disappointing draw with Sibir. Manager Miodrag Božović waits for the arrival of new signings Kevin Kurányi and Marko Lomić but still there are many unanswered questions of his sides extraordinary under performance. Dynamo is rife with talent, including brilliant young striker Alexandr Kokorin, but are playing without confidence.

On the opposite end of the perspective is Rostov who shocked Spartak Moscow last week with a 1-0 victory. Rostov manager Oleg Protasov deployed an air tight tactical play that frustrated the Krasno-belye. Riding a two-match winning streak, Rostov enjoys a lofty position at fifth in the table and though they will be without Alexandru Gaţcan, due to suspension, are playing with confidence and discipline.

Spartak Moscow - Rubin Kazan

Spartak Moscow is in dire need of a win as they welcome defending champion Rubin Kazan to the capital. After consecutive losses to Alaniya Vladikavkaz and Rostov in league play, Spartak had to work hard to get past Metallurg Lipetsk midweek in the Russian Cup. With pressure building on Krasno-belye manager Valeriy Karpin needs his side to play to their promise but of late, intensity has been lacking. Spartak has seen Ivan Saenko and Sergey Parshivlyuk standout but otherwise the attack is lacking. Nikita Bazhenov looked promising in his return in the Russian Cup and could jump into the starting grid as Welliton after being carried off with an injury.

Kurban Berdyev’s Rubin Kazan responded from their modest performances of the first half of the campaign with a solid victory over Krylya Sovetov last week. With Alan Kasaev, Evgeniy Balyaykin and Gökdeniz Karadeniz back in the line-up, Rubin's attack picked up pace but the defending champion will need to reverse their recent trend of faltering against Spartak in the capital.

Sunday

Tom Tomsk - Anzhi Makhachkala

On Sunday, the action starts with Tom Tomsk welcoming Anzhi Makhachkala to Siberia after last week’s late loss to Amkar Perm. Valeriy Nepomnyaschy’s side have had issues at home but he kept much of his normal starting line-up out of the Russian Cup match against Krasnodar and they should be well rested. He will however be without Andrey Ivanov, who is suspended due to card build-up.

Without a win since week five, Anzhi is within two points of the drop zone and finding their once promising attack with Jan Holenda. Former CSKA Sofia man Todor Timonov scored twice in their mid-week Russian Cup over Pskov-747 Pskov and could easily find himself in Gadzhi Gadzhiev's starting eleven.

Terek Grozny - Amkar Perm

Grozny opened the second half of the campaign with a lethargic loss to Spartak Nalchik. With the services of playmaker Blagoy Georgiev, Anatoliy Baidachny’s side lacked the same attacking vision and it is difficult to see where that will come from in his absence.

Rashid Rakhimov Amkar Perm shocked Tom Tomsk last week as Alexandr Kolomeytsev scored his first goal in the top flight of Russian football as time wound down. Amkar continues to fight their way from relegation with a resourceful approach, though they are short on the attacking end. The Amkar tactician is Mitar Novaković due to suspension.

Lokomotiv Moscow - Alaniya Vladikavkaz

Despite lacking in the striking department, Yuriy Semin has quietly squeezed his side to sixth place and looking very capable of a run towards a spot in Europe. The Railwayman welcomed Wágner and Rodolfo back in last weeks win against Anzhi and with Marko Baša returning the Russian Cup, they appear primed for a run towards the finish. Lokomotiv is without Tomislav Dujmović due to suspension.

Alaniya gets back into action after Zenit ran them off the pitch last week. With only one win away from home this year, Vladimir Shevchuk's forces face a tough test in the Lokomotiv fortress. Alaniya's efforts will be without Valeriy Tskhovrebov who is suspended.

Monday

Krylya Sovetov - CSKA Moscow

CSKA head to Samara to face relegation threatened Krylya Sovetov. After being held to a disappointing draw against Saturn, Leonid Slutsky's side got past Torpedo Moscow in the Russian Cup with Guilherme scoring twice. Deividas Semberas is unavailable due to suspension and the CSKA tactician has a series of unusual line-up choices to make with Miloš Krasić seemingly on his way out but has been sub-par recently. Many questions remain around the Army-Men camp as they must deal with the arrivals of Zoran Tošić and Seydou Doumbia along with the surprising return of Vágner Love.

Yuriy Gazzaev's side is in the midst of the three-match losing streak and will need to bolt down this contest. Surrendering twenty-one goals, the Samaran's are one of the worst defending units in the league and need play with more disciplined defending if they are to survive in the top flight.

Saturn Moskovskaya Oblast - Spartak Nalchik

Andrey Gordeev's Ramenskoe based side shocked CSKA last week with a hard fought draw in their effort to avoid relegation. Following the match Army-Men manager Leonid Slutsky noted Saturn is far above their bottom of the table placing. Despite some compliments, Saturn needs to score and without Dmitriy Loskov who was not resigned. Saturn needed a penalty shoot-out to get past Sakhalin Yuzhno-Sakhalinsk in the Russian Cup but should be well rested by Monday.

Yuriy Krasnozhan's Nalchik confidently dispatched Terek Grozny last week but they are without Gogita Gogua and Miodrag Džudović, both under suspension. Sitting fourth in the table, if they are to make a run for a European spot, this it the type of contest they need full points from.

Prepared by John Davies

... but nothing matches the thrill and challenge of having money on the line!

ROSTOV TO SIGN ANGELOV

Rostov has agreed to acquire Bulgarian midfielder Stanislav Angelov.


The 32-year-old Angelov made his debut in his national team in 2006, made 30 appearances and netted two goals. His contract with his previous club Energie expired in June.

"My agent is acquainted with Alexandr Shikunov [Rostov sporting director], who offered me to continue my career in Rostov", Angelov told sport press. "Steaua was also interested in me, but I chose Russia".

"A lot of my compatriots play in the Russian championship and they like playing there. Moreover this championship is popular in Europe, that is important for me since I play in the national team".

"My contract will be signed for one year and a half, and when I get working permission, it will be immediately signed".

LOSKOV LEAVES SATURN

Saturn management decided not to extend contract with midfielder Dmitriy Loskov.


Previous agreement of the 36-year-old Loskov with Saturn expired when the team returned to Moscow from a training camp in Austria, and Moscow region club decided not to extend it. Loskov made 53 appearances and scored seven goals during three seasons in Saturn.

"We won’t extend our agreement", Saturn head coach Andrey Gordeev said to sport press. "We want to thank the player for the time which he spent in our team and his attitude to his work".

"Term of my contract has expired and having discussed it we decided not to sign a new one", Loskov explained. "I have nothing to say more, and my future is not clear yet".

LATE ZYRYANOV GOAL SENS ZENIT PAST ANZHI

A late, albeit fortunate, goal by Konstantin Zyryanov pushed Zenit Saint Petersburg past Anzhi Makhachkala 2-1 at Petrovsky Stadium. With the result, Luciano Spalletti's side take a commanding four-point lead over CSKA Moscow at the top of the table, whilst Anzhi sets at the twelfth spot as the Rosgosstrakh Championship of Russia heads towards week twelve.


In the warm summer afternoon, Zenit pushed forward without notables Danko Lazović, Radek Šírl and Danny available against Gadzhi Gadzhiev’s well-prepared side. After a quiet start to the contest, Zenit Saint Petersburg went in front 1-0 at the quarter-hour as Vladimir Bystrov accepted the ball from Konstantin Zyryanov on the right side of the area and quickly drove the ball past Anzhi 'keeper Nukri Revishvili.

After the goal, Luciano Spalletti's side found the going tough against the determined visitors with the only chance before the break when Alessandro Rosina's corner from the right forced the Anzhi 'keeper into a close-range stop after the ball rattled off the near post.

After the break, the box-to-box play continued as Zenit showed little ability to penetrate Anzhi’s staunch defending. After a modest effort at the fifty-fifth minute when Alexandr Kerzhakov's free kick called the Anzhi 'keeper into action, the momentum shifted in the visitor’s favour. With Zenit clinging to a one-goal advantage and unable to put the match away, Anzhi made them pay with the leveller five minutes past the hour.

After a short corner was pulled back to the flank, Rasim Tagirbekov fought off his marker Nicolas Lombaerts, to head in a left wing cross. Realizing the important victory was slipping away, Luciano Spalletti summoned Viktor Fayzulin at the seventy-forth minute with the highly promising eighteen-year old striker Maxim Kanunnikov to follow five minutes later. Despite their efforts, Gadzhi Gadzhiev’s side were holding Zenit at bay and looked to be in route to a draw until disaster struck with three minutes remaining in regulation time.

Coming via a simple cross into the box, Anzhi 'keeper Nukri Revishvili completely misplayed the ball off the bounce, spilling it out from the line to which veteran Konstantin Zyryanov dutifully sent the gift into the net. In a complete loss of composure, Anzhi's David Tsorayev received his second yellow for dissent, ruling him out of key attacker for their match against Lokomotiv Moscow on Saturday.

For the balance of time, Zenit Saint Petersburg killed off any advances and laid claim to the full three points, albeit somewhat fortuitously, with the 2-1 victory.

ZENIT LOOK TO KEEP UNBEATEN RUN ALIVE AGAINST ANZHI

After a long hiatus, the Rosgosstrakh Championship of Russia returns to play on Sunday as league leaders Zenit Saint Petersburg make the trip to the North Caucasus region to face Anzhi Makhachkala.


In the make-up match of week eleven, Luciano Spalletti's Saint Petersburg side hold a narrow one-point lead over CSKA and are without a loss this year. Following the Russian Cup victory, Zenit look on a confident course towards the double and showing few notable weaknesses. Though it is easy to poke holes in the less than notable attacking output, with only thirteen goals in ten contests, the well-disciplined play has Zenit poised for European competition.

Clearly, the Italian tactician has prioritized the defending aspect first and as they begin to gel on the attacking front, they will be a formidable unit not simply domestically but have a chance to push deep into the Champions League.

Unsatisfied with the production of Alexandr Kerzhakov, Zenit is said to have agreed to terms to see Alexndr Bukharov arrive from Rubin Kazan in August, seemingly making the former expendable. Though the club has yet to have any formal signings, they are extremely busy in the transfer market and announcements seem imminent.

While the horizon for Zenit is highly optimistic, on Sunday they face a unique test in Makhachkala. Unsure of the availability of Danny, returning from Portugal's disappointing World Cup performance, Zenit should expect a compact defending front from Gadzhi Gadzhiev’s side. Displaying a tough defending front, they held Dynamo to a 1-1 draw in the final match before the break and have recently demonstrated an ability to gut out results.

Knowing they are in the thick of a relegation battle, the veteran leader will not be shy of locking down the contest and forcing Zenit to push forward, thus opening up the counter. Though Zenit is not short on attacking quality, that includes the emergence of Russian U21 striker Maxim Kanunnikov and should come out with the full three points, they will need to be aggressive going forward.

Krylya Sovetov - Amkar Perm

On Monday Amkar Perm travels to Samara to face Krylya Sovetov after a brilliant performance against Zenit in the Russian Cup that saw they fall in a penalty shoot out.

"Red-Black" manager Rashid Rakhimov surely was proud of his side and it is clear that despite their roster limitations, he has restored their disciplined style of play. Amkar's injury woes are improving, though they are still missing Ivan Cherenchikov, Igor Usminskiy and Nikita Burmistrov.

Excluding their upset of Saturn Moskovskaya Oblast, the campaign has been a tough test for Krylya Sovetov. After holding off financial collapse, the Samaran's line-up have managed to maintain a competitive side with credit owing to manager Yuriy Gazzaev's tactical plan but their attacking weakness is notable. With both sides highly disciplined, Krylya will look to dictate and limit Amkar's flanking attack. The Samaran tactician will miss striker Igor Strelkov, who come over from FC Moscow, due to injury.

LOKOMOTIV VS. DYNAMO PREMIER MATCH ON SUNDAY

The Rosgosstrakh Championship of Russia returns on Sunday with four exciting matches, including a Moscow Derby as Dynamo visits Lokomotiv and Spartak's visit of a much-improved Tom Tomsk.


Tom Tomsk - Spartak Moscow

The action gets started on Sunday as Tom Tomsk welcomes Spartak Moscow to Siberia.

Building upon their hard fought victory over Lokomotiv, Spartak manager Valeriy Karpin demonstrated not only a level of coaching maturity but also the ability to vary tactics. After establishing an early lead against Yuriy Semin's Railywaymen, Spartak locked down the affair with a stubborn defending resolve. Interestingly enough, the young tactician may be forced into similar choices as Tomsk has considerable attacking weapons.

Valeriy Nepomnyaschy's Tomsk line-up is not short of quality and the return of Belarusian international Sergey Kornilenko offers them the finishing they desperately needed. Along with former Torpedo Moscow-man Đorđe Jokić as well as Denis Kiselyov and Kyrylo Kovalchuk on the flanks, Tomsk is a very capable of upsetting the best. Though he is excluded from the match, Alexandr Prudnikov arrival on-loan from Spartak, will fit in well and the help push the club forward. Last week, without Sergey Kornilenko due to injury, after giving up two quick own-goals to Krylya Sovetov, they charged back to a 3-2 victory. Tomsk should have their sharpshooter Sergey Kornilenko available as well as welcoming Georgiy Dzhioev and Valeriy Klimov back from suspension, although they will be without the services of Kim Nam-Il, who was red-carded late against the Samaran's.

For Spartak, this match represents an interesting series of tactical choices. New additions Marek Suchý and Ari have shone brightly but as they press against sides outside of the top six, they must show the focus and discipline to finish without failure. Ultimately, this match and the like will prove to be the ultimate decider if they are to stand on the victor’s podium at years end.

Terek Grozny - Krylya Sovetov

In a tale of two sides at opposite ends of the spectrum, troubled Krylya Sovetov travels to the Chechen region to face Terek Grozny on Sunday afternoon.

The Samaran's severe financial problems have constricted their efforts to attract talent and three weeks into new campaign, it is painfully evident on the pitch. Manager Yuriy Gazzaev deserves of the highest accolades given the situation but after three consecutive losses, in which they only have two own-goals by the opposition to note, the Samaran's are in deep trouble. Oddly, the line-up does that some very fine talent but it will take strong leadership, likely coming from the likes of veteran Ruslan Adzhindzhal, to demonstrate greater confidence.

On the opposite side of the equation is Terek Grozny. Undefeated after three weeks, the Chechen side played defending champion Rubin Kazan to a draw and in-fact, came close to earning the win. The flourishing attack of Blagoy Georgiev, Hector Bracamonte and Shamil Asildarov is in the early stages of learning each other’s traits but in time will become a potent offence. Their voracious supporters will be out in full force as Grozny looks to unleash its full potential against troubled Krylya Sovetov.

Saturn Moskovskaya Oblast – Rubin Kazan

After faltering against Terek Grozny, defending champions Rubin Kazan look to the find their winning ways as they travel to face Saturn Moskovskaya Oblast in Ramenskoe on Sunday afternoon.

Andrey Gordeev’s side have had a very difficult start to the new campaign with the attack sputtering with the absences of Dmitriy Loskov and Marko Topić. Though last week at Rostov, Dmitriy Loskov returned late, Saturn's attack has been inconsistent and well-below their pedigree. Against Rubin Kazan, they face a daunting task as the defending champions have yet to surrender a goal this year.

Despite being undefeated, Rubin Kazan is decidedly under-performing from the high standards they set in the previous two years. Fortunate to defeat nine-man Tom Tomsk the previous Monday, Terek Grozny held them to a scoreless draw. Along with the loss of Alejandro Domínguez to Valencia, Rubin has been plagued with injuries that includes the extended absence of Sergey Semak as well as Vitaliy Kaleshin, Roman Sharonov, Rafał Murawski and will be without Gökdeniz Karadeniz for at least two weeks. On the positive side, Fatih Tekke has fit in quickly and Rubin is ready for a break out. The question is now whether Saturn can rise to the occasion or see their slow start continue.

Lokomotiv Moscow – Dynamo Moscow

In the final match of week four of the Rosgosstrakh Championship of Russia, Lokomotiv welcomes Dynamo in a Moscow Derby as both sides are coming off hard fought losses.

Lokomotiv has maintained its unbeaten run at home since the return of Yuriy Semin last May but will face a tough challenge to keep that record intact against Dynamo. Last week against Spartak, after falling behind by two goals early they diligently worked their way back and came with a fraction of levelling as Oleksandr Aliyev’s free kick rasped off the cross bar as time ran out. However, the absence of Wágner is weighing heavy on the Railwaymen attack and strikers Peter Odemwingie and Dramane Traoré have had problems finishing.

Scheduling has pushed Dynamo to the limit, with an opening run that includes two Moscow Derby's and last week battle against Zenit Saint Petersburg. However, in each test Andrey Kobelev’s line-up that features new additions Igor Semshov, Aleksandr Samedov and Andriy Voronin has impressed with teen Alexandr Kokorin a constant threat with flanking assaults.

This edition of the Moscow Derby is the perfect conclusion to the weekend and has all the makings of the one of the top matches of the young season and a tactical gem.

Prepared by John Davies

SPARTAK WELCOMES LOKOMOTIV ON SUNDAY

The premier match on Sunday of week three of the Russian Championship is unquestionably the Moscow derby between Spartak and Lokomotiv at Luzhniki Stadium.


Spartak Moscow – Lokomotiv Moscow

Spartak enters the match in clear need of their first victory of the year. The Krasno-belye cannot afford to defending champions Rubin Kazan to extend their lead as it already stands at a hefty fifty points. Standing in their way is Yuriy Semin's Lokomotiv, who excluding a late collapse in the opening week loss to Rubin have been near perfect. Rebounding from loss, the Railwayman overwhelmed Krylya Sovetov last week with overwhelming display. Lokomotiv welcomed Dmitriy Torbinsky back, after missing the opening day due to a suspension that carried over from last year and his presence was notable as Yuriy Semin’s side showed greater attacking vision and once again, commanding in the defending end. New signing Oleksandr Aliyev has established his booming leg and solid promise as a two-way team player. Finishing has been less than optimal, with Peter Odemwingie and Dramane Traoré off the mark but are highly capable.

After a trying opening day against Dynamo, Spartak showed a venomous attack against Zenit Saint Petersburg early, only to be outmatched by goalkeeper Soslan Dzhanaev's man of the match performance. In their first starting assignments, Ari was a perfect supporting striker for Welliton.and Marek Suchý, on-loan from Slavia Praha, had a role in the opening goal as well as keeping Alexandr Kerzhakov in check. All signs point to the tactical gem of a match with opportunities greatly limited.

Rubin Kazan – Terek Grozny

On Sunday Rubin Kazan focus their efforts on maintaining their perfect record to the start of the new campaign as they welcome Terek Grozny to Central Stadium.

Grozny has shown well in the opening two weeks, though last weeks home opener saw an otherwise superb performance against Rostov spoiled with a late leveller by Mersudin Ahmetović. The Chechen side have done well in the past against Rubin but this years unit, led by Bulgarian playmaker Blagoy Georgiev, with strikers Shamil Asildarov and Hector Bracamonte will need to step up the pace against the defending champions.

Defending champions Rubin Kazan, despite a perfect record are definitely suffering through a slow start. They were fortunate to come out with a win against Tom Tomsk on Monday, due in part to a series of highly questionable calls after stymied in the opening week against Lokomotiv until the Railwaymen ran out of steam late. That aside, a perfect record even when you are not in top form speaks volumes and Kurban Berdyev's side possess plenty of firepower. Of special note, Andrei Gorbanets and Alan Kasaev have quickly emerged in the midfield and with Rubin no longer burdened with European competition, they could distance themselves from the field early in the season.

Rostov – Saturn Moskovskaya Oblast

In the final match of the weekend, Saturn Moskovskaya Oblast visits Rostov with both sides in the hunt for their first victory of the new year.

Andrey Gordeev’s Ramenskoe based side have been deeply disappointed with their opening two weeks. Fortunate to with Alaniya Vladikavkaz and Sibir Novosibirsk on the schedule, they have only been able to come out with two draws, marked with inconsistent play. In a confusing performance last week against the visiting Siberian side, they were out worked in opening forty-five minute before taking charge after the break. Despite their quality, they have yet to show the same tenacity as last year and need to break out quickly before they drop too many points against lower division sides. However, Saturn's fortunes could make a drastic turnaround shortly with the news that Dmitriy Loskov is ready to return. Though it is unclear at this time if legendary attacker is ready to return, no less against Rostov where his career begin, his impact will be notable and must be watched.

Rostov comes into the match looking to wipe the slate clean of the opening weeks. They followed up the opening day loss to Tomsk with an extremely fortunate draw to Terek Grozny last week. Outplayed from the opening whistle, excluding a late strike, Rostov has lacked syncopation. Despite this, Rostov possesses some very fine talent and capable of far more than what they have shown. Alexandr Pavlenko and Alexandru Gaţcan have shown very well in the midfield and it is only time until Roman Adamov finds the mark and helps turn Rostov's season around.

Prepared by John Davies

PREMIER LEAGUE WEEK 3 PREDICTIONS

Predictions are made by former midfielder of Spartak and Russian national team Egor Titov and sport press journalist Alexandr Martanov.


Sibir – Spartak Nalchik

Expert prediction: 2-0. My sister’s husband Alexey Vasilyev plays in Sibir, so I will support this team and I wish them good luck.

Sport press journalist's prediction: 1-0. Sibir conceded only two goals in 19 home games last season and conceded the same number of goals in the first match of the current campaign from Terek. Nevetherless I think that they will please their fans with victory.

Krylya Sovetov – FC Tom

Expert prediction: 1-0. I have no words to describe what happened with Krylya Sovetov and their fans. Logically hosts have no chances but I believe in their players.

Sport press journalist's: 1-0. Samara team looked awfully in Cherkizovo, but maybe they will manage to add players to their rosters. Even if they don’t do it, they can take three points anyway.

Dynamo – Zenit

Expert prediction: 1-1. It is one of the most difficult matches for prediction. Both Dynamo and Zenit don’t want to lose to their main competitors. I guess they will play defensive football, but they will score goals and I guess the scorers will be Kerzhakov and Voronin.

Sport press journalist's: 1-0. It seems to me that hosts will be luckier as Dynamo impressed me more than Zenit at the start of the championship.

Spartak – Lokomotiv

Expert prediction: 2-0. There cannot be other variants, because nobody would understand me if I stake on Lokomotiv.

Sport press journalist's: 1-2. Experienced Yuriy Semin was hurt by last autumn’s 0:3 defeat from less-experienced Valeriy Karpin. He will definitely take revenge upon Spartak for that loss.

Rubin – Terek

Expert prediction: 2-0. With all my respect of Terek I don’t see anything that they will oppose to Rubin. Kazan club had serious playing practice plus Alexandr Bukharov is on a high. I suppose he is number one player in Russia nowadays.

Sport press journalist's: 3-0. Last year Rubin crushed Terek 4:0 in Kazan and after that they didn’t become weaker.

Rostov – Saturn

Expert prediction: 1-2. I have more friends in Saturn so I will support them. Their victory is more probable, because their class is higher than Rostov’s level.

Sport press journalist's: 1-1. Draw is the most probable variant for me.

MOSCOW DERBY HIGHLIGHTS PREMIER LEAGUE SUNDAY PROGRAM

Schedulers in the Rosgosstrakh Championship of Russia saved the higher profile matches for the last, as the top of the table will battle on Sunday, with defending champions Rubin Kazan in a rare Monday match-up.


On Sunday afternoon, the Petrovsky faithful will be in full force as Spartak Moscow visits Zenit Saint Petersburg. The opening weeks for both sides were less than fulfilling as Spartak saw their much-lauded attack well controlled by Dynamo, in route to a loss, whilst Zenit was greatly limited by Krylya Sovetov. Whilst the opening week contest saw Valeriy Karpin’s run into an inspired performance by Dynamo and a possible hint of a shape of things to come from the White-Blues this year, Zenit, despite all the fan fare looked disjointed against the Samara.

In his comments to sport press, Mr. Karpin succinctly noted the Krasno-belye’s chief problem was the lack of movement and “complacency” and the youthful manager will ensure his side are more than prepared for higher work rate. Without a doubt, Spartak will need great attacking vision cutting upon Zenit and if last week is any in Luciano Spalletti’s debut in-charge of the Saint Petersburg side, they will be very patient going forward. The former Roma manger deployed his customary 4-2-3-1 formation but service to striker Alexandr Kerzhakov was terribly lacking and for the most part, efforts were of the low probability kind. Should Zenit not show a greater attacking vision, this match could grind out to a mid-field affair with Spartak the initiator.

Dynamo gets no break from back-to-back opening week Moscow Derby's as they go up against CSKA. It was hard not to come out for Dynamo’s victory over Spartak and question whether manager Andrey Kobelev has created a masterpiece in their winter signings. The White-Blues played as a team, with gritty resolve against their rivals and Andriy Voronin sparkled at times as well as showing a venomous desire to win.

This has all the makings of classic Derby battle as CSKA, coming off the highs of winning advancement to the Champions League quarterfinals will be ripe for an upset. Dynamo, who were brilliant in limiting Spartak last week, will need to the do same against Leonid Slutsky’s attacking quad of Miloš Krasić, Alan Dzagoev, Keisuke Honda and Tomáš Necid. The test for the Army-Men manager is to control the reigns of his side and return focus for the domestic campaign, starting with Sunday’s crucial test.

On Monday, defending champions Rubin Kazan will need to be careful in their visit Tom Tomsk or the Siberian side could steal points from them. After their extra-time loss to Wolfsburg in the Europa League, Kurban Berdyev will direct his side towards winning their third successive domestic crown. Standing in their way will be a Tom Tomsk, who were superb last week, with Sergei Kornilenko leading the way in a 2-0 defeat of Rostov.

The Belarusian international returned to Siberia, on-loan from Zenit Saint-Petersburg and immediately reaffirmed his goal-scoring prowess with two highly professional marks. Tomsk manager Valeriy Nepomnyaschy saw youngster Andrey Ivanov shine after summoning him at the hour and will be tempted to give him a spot in the starting eleven. Mr. Berdyev has consistently shown the ability to juggle his line-up, getting the best from his side and will need to do so again on Monday to push past the stubborn Siberian side.

Prepared by John Davies