The defeat in the game against Slovenian Maribor, even by fact that the opponent played in the Champions League group stage this season, was a surprise. Firstly, in the course of the game, the opponent managed to make only few difficulties to our defence.

The first shot in the Sheriff's goal was netted only in the 73rd minute. However, it was really hot at the opponents' goal. In the first half, experienced Hadanovich saved a low corner shot from Jairo, then Pairel was just one step from scoring, but Badibanga failed to pass. There were dangerous corners as well. Roberto Bordin's side made more than 10 corner kicks during the game.

In the second half, newcomers Rodrigues, Syrima and Kamara had all chances to score, but were lack of enough accuracy. In the 83rd minute, the referee from Ukraine awarded a penalty to our goal. Bardysh was almost about to rebound, but failed. Four minutes later, the Ukrainian referee didn’t award a penalty to the Slovenians’ goal. Even the rivals confirmed the use of the hand.

The goal at the final whistle didn’t change anything. Considering that our team is under training loads, the game showed good potential. Note that in two halves the coaching staff used different line-ups. Only Susic and Posmac played the entire game.

Today the team has time for recreation and free time. Tomorrow the second stage of the preparations begins which will end in a game against Zeta (Montenegro) on 10 February. Photo gallery of the game is here.

FC Sheriff Press Office