Ludogorets clinch maiden Bulgarian Cup

PFC Ludogorets Razgrad have won the Bulgarian Cup for the first time after fighting back from a goal down to complete a 2-1 victory against ten-man PFC Lokomotiv Plovdiv 1936 in Burgas.

Initially the enormity of the occasion seemed to overawe Ludogorets as their opponents barnstormed their way to a one-goal lead inside 18 minutes, courtesy of Dakson's powerful finish. Ivaylo Petev's side found their feet with 20 minutes remaining, however, and capitalised when Marcelinho latched on to Emil Gargorov's incisive pass, before finishing with aplomb.

The comeback was complete eight minutes later, Gargorov again the provider and Marcelinho the grateful recipient; his bludgeoning effort giving Ivan Karadzhov no chance. The goal ultimately took the wind out of Lokomotiv's sails, who finished the game with ten men, following Youness Bengelloune's dismissal.

"We were nervous during the first half," said triumphant Ludogorets coach Petev, after guiding his side to their first major trophy. "We made the necessary changes during the break and played very well in the second half. I think we deserved the win. Now we are looking forward to the final two league games as we have a good chance of winning the title."

Trailing leaders PFC CSKA Sofia by two points, Ludogorets will look to set the seal on a landmark season when the clubs meet on the final day of the season in Razgrad.