The Czech top-flight match between Sigma Olomouc and FK Pardubice ended with late drama – and a red card – for Lithuania’s international winger Artūras Dolžnikov, as his side claimed a 2-0 victory over Estonia’s Robi Saarma and his Pardubice team.
Dolžnikov started on the bench, while Saarma made his third consecutive start for Pardubice. After a goalless first half, the 24-year-old Estonian was substituted early in the second period. Dolžnikov entered the match in the 72nd minute, and within minutes of his introduction, Sigma Olomouc struck twice to take control of the game.
However, the spotlight turned to Dolžnikov again in stoppage time – this time for the wrong reasons. Following a tussle with Pardubice defender Ryan Mahuta, tempers flared and a brief scuffle broke out. Both players were shown straight red cards for their involvement in the altercation.
For Sigma Olomouc, this marked a third consecutive win in all competitions and seven matches unbeaten, while Pardubice’s winless run extended to four games.
Dolžnikov has now made 11 league appearances this season, contributing one goal and one assist, while Saarma has featured 13 times since joining Pardubice from Paide Linnameeskond earlier this year.
In the standings, Sigma Olomouc sit fourth with 26 points, and Pardubice remain in 13th on 12 points.
