Lechia Gdansk played an away match on Saturday at 20:30 at Wisla Krakow. This was the 2nd game in the ‘championship’ group (Group A) of the lotto Ekstraklasa and Lechia needed to take advantage after league leaders, Jagiellonia Bialystok, dropped points away at Korona Kielce on Friday night. After 8 always games without a win in the league Coach Novak went with an attacking line up to try to secure all 3 points which pleased fans as Lechia have been accused of being too cautious and playing defensive when away from home.
The Match
In the first half Lechia were solid at the back and didn’t let Wisla come close to causing any danger. In attack Lechia once again failed to finish many chances. The Paixao brothers and Rafal Wolski had some great chances to put Lechia ahead. Wolski saw his free kick hit the wall in the 17th minute.
First Half 0:0
Coach Nowak caused some concern after receiving treatment for health problems during the first half, he then watched the 2nd half from the changing rooms but assured fans he was feeling much better.
Not long after the break, in the 50th minute, Thomas Cywki received his second yellow card and Wisla were down to 10 min. This was Lechia’s opportunity to take the advantage and just 8 minutes later it Lukas Haraslin who scored the opener for Lechia after an assist from Rafal Wolski, Haraslin is in great form at the moment which will please Lechia fans in this crucial part of the season.
In the 82nd minute, Ivan Gonzalez had a great chance to equalize for Wisla but luckily for Lechia his header was over the bar.
Final Score 0:1
Lechia once again dominated especially in midfield and finally took all 3 points in an away game.
The White and Greens have moved into second place in the table, just 1 point behind league leaders Jagiellonia Bialystok. This could all change after Lech Poznan and Legia Warszawa play their respective games on Sunday afternoon.
Post Match
Coach Nowak commented on his health after the match – ‘I was examined by a doctor, got medication, but nothing serious has happened. By the end of the meeting I was in the locker room, but remained in constant contact with all my colleagues from the coaching staff. I watched the game on TV, Andrzej Wozniak was a link between me and Maciek Kalkowskim, who led the team from the bench. I thank them, as well as all the other people from my staff for exemplary care. Also, players and fans for their support and important victory. I’m feeling good, and even better after winning in Krakow’
Next Match
Lechia will host Korona Kielce at the Stadion Energa on Sunday 14th May at 15:30.