Zenit’s first home loss for the Russian League last week from Krasnodar gave no other option than the win in Kazan against Rubin, in order to keep up with CSKA Moscow who now have the absolute of 6 wins in 6 games.
Zenit had the initiative during the first half which produced an early goal through Axel’s feet. The Belgian found Shatov in the box with a beautiful back-heel pass and the Russian easily converted, 0-1 for St. Petersburg.
Kazan wasn’t a real threat even though chasing the score and the game eventually went to half time with Zenit up front.
Second half started with lots of mistakes and tough tackles from both teams, a fact that changed after the 70′ minute. Bilyaletdinov brought things level taking advantage a mistimed come-out from Lodygin and the game was on.
Five minutes where enough for Hulk to give his answer. The Brazilian received the ball at the edge of Kazan’s box and with an orchestrated sweet lob, left Ryzhikov standing as he watched the ball lying at the end of his posts; an immediate lead for Zenit.
Just introduced Danny almost finished the game at the 83′ minute missing from a very close range, but it was Shatov who destroyed every chance Rubin had of getting something positive. Hulk created, Oleg executed -from the box again- and the 1-3 for Zenit, who are back on track and continue their pressure against CSKA.
