Prague's Slavia defeated Sparta in the latest round of the Czech football league, claiming their first win over their rivals in roughly six years. The match ended with a three-goal victory and a clean sheet for the home side's goalkeeper.
The winning goals came from Novák, Sturm and Ayaosi — each netting his first-ever goal in this fierce city rivalry. According to Slavia's goalkeeper, the players didn't need any extra reminders about the importance of facing Sparta: "We're not stupid — everyone took the best out of the week's preparation to feel as confident as possible on the pitch," the keeper said.
Despite the loss, it was Sparta who created more dangerous chances and won more corners. The winning goalkeeper admitted his opponents kept him busy, with balls flying into the box regularly both from set pieces and open play. Still, he said he actually found that kind of pressure helpful, as constant work keeps him sharp and focused.
The toughest moment of the match, he said, came in the second half when Adam Karabec broke through one-on-one from the side of the goal — an effort he managed to save at the last moment. An early set-piece strike also tested him, as did an attempt from Alcocer from a tight angle that, by the keeper's own admission, could easily have hit the post.
Slavia's tactical plan relied heavily on counterattacks — according to the goalkeeper, quick breaks are exactly what causes Sparta's defence trouble, and the approach paid off in this match. He also highlighted the atmosphere surrounding the game, which had been widely discussed ahead of the derby: full stands on both sides and passionate support from fans throughout the match.
Source: sport.cz