Spot-on Zenit win Russian Cup
Sunday, May 16, 2010
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Roman Shirokov's penalty on the hour saw FC Zenit St. Petersburg win their second Russian Cup, following their maiden success in 1999, but there was solace for beaten FC Sibir Novosibirsk.
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A Roman Shirokov penalty gave FC Zenit St. Petersburg their second Russian Cup, and first since 1999, but defeated FC Sibir Novosibirsk have earned a place in the UEFA Europa League regardless.
As expected, the Premier-Liga leaders dominated proceedings, with Luciano Spalletti's side carving out 13 chances during the first half to 15th-ranked Sibir's two. Konstantin Zyryanov missed the best of those opportunities for Zenit after 26 minutes, shooting at the goalkeeper from close range from Vladimir Bystrov's incisive ball.
Despite those misses, Shirokov was to make no mistake from the spot on the hour and Zenit had chances to add to their tally before the final whistle. However, with Zenit having earned a place in UEFA Champions League qualifying by finishing third in the league in 2009, Sibir will take the UEFA Europa League slot set aside for the Russian Cup winners.
"I'm truly happy," said Italian coach Spalletti. "I want to dedicate this victory to everyone at Zenit. I can't say that it was easy for us today. It was a tough match and it was only decided by a clear penalty." Shirokov added: "I have the goal, but [defender] Nicolas Lombaerts is the real hero; he stopped us from conceding at the end."