Koper claim Slovenian crown
Saturday, April 24, 2010
Article summary
FC Koper have been crowned champions of Slovenia with four matches to spare following a 2-0 win away to NK Rudar Velenje, becoming just the fifth side in the league's 18-year history to win the title.
Article top media content
Article body
FC Koper have been crowned champions of Slovenia with four matches to spare following a 2-0 win away to NK Rudar Velenje on Saturday, their 20th victory of the season.
With defending champions NK Maribor held to a goalless draw at NK Domžale, Koper took full advantage at Rudar through goals from Mitja Brulc and Dare Vršič to become just the fifth side in the league's 18-year history to win the title. With four games to play Nedzad Okcic's side hold a 15-point advantage over Maribor who they host next week in a game that will now have no bearing on the title outcome.
"We worked hard for this, so this title is big success for our club," said coach Nedžad Okčič. "I am glad we were able to finish our work in Velenje.'' Captain Miran Pavlin added: ''This was our last step. I was able to implement a winning mentality in our squad. Other players understood that. Our style pf play was based on a strong attack."