Rukh Brest travel to high flying Slavia Mozyr
High flying Slavia Mozyr host Rukh Brest on Monday afternoon, with the chance of reaching the summit of the Belarusian Premier League in victory. Rukh gained promotion from the second tier last season, beating relegated Dnyapro in a two legged playoff to earn their status, they are currently 12th with three points from as many games, their opening day win over Dinamo Minsk involved the one goal they have managed so far this campaign. Mozyr have won three on the bounce coming into this encounter and therefore are deserved favourites.
Recent form
Slavia Mozyr earnt a one goal advantage in their Belarusian Cup semifinal tie on Wednesday, beating BATE Borisov 1-0 after managing a similar feat 2-1 over last season’s runners up two games earlier. The other win in between came away to reigning champions Dinamo Brest, springing another surprise. Rukh Brest as a result of Mozyr’s midweek success have had plenty of time to prepare.
Rukh are easing their way into the season and have competed in every match thus far, 1-0 being the final score of each of their outings. Being on the wrong side of the last two against Energetik-BGU and BATE Borisov respectively.
Ones to watch
The first of two Rukh Brest young guns is Denis Grechikho, a 20-year-old midfield engine roomer with an eye for goal. Grechikho was on target seven times last season having made 30 appearances for Dnepr Mogilev in the topflight before moving to Brest in 2018, giving him more motivation to ensure he showcases his best form this time around. A Belarus U21 international and ever present so far this term, he will be crucial for the underdogs on Monday afternoon.
Second up is Pavel Sedko, a more versatile midfielder who moved across the city from Dinamo last term and managed six goals and four assists from just 21 appearances. At 22 he adds to their youthful core, and for a side expected to battle against the drop this year that could go one of two ways. The energy and creativity of these two could go a long way to impacting on the Slavia team who have an extra game in their legs from the last seven days. It is the first time this season that Mozyr come into a match as favourites and Rukh Brest will do all they can to upset the apple cart.
Based on form this should be straight forward for Mozyr who boast the scalps of last season’s top two in their last three matches.
Post bet chat Marcus's Tips:
Newly promoted Rukh Brest performed admirably and held on for a goalless draw despite being reduced to 10 just after the hour mark.