Lithuanian international Paulius Golubickas and his club Kuopion Palloseura (KuPS) took another important step toward defending their Finnish Veikkausliiga title, claiming a 1-0 away win over direct rivals SJK Seinäjoki.
The 26-year-old attacking midfielder started the match on the bench as KuPS entered the round level on points with Inter Turku at the top of the table, though with one game in hand. With only three points separating the league’s top four sides – including SJK – this was a crucial fixture in the championship race.
After a goalless first half, chances remained scarce in the second. Golubickas was introduced in the 80th minute with the score still 0-0, and KuPS eventually found a dramatic winner in the 90th minute, when SJK’s Faroese defender Samuel Chukwudi accidentally headed the ball into his own net following a corner.
The victory proved vital, as KuPS moved three points clear at the top of the standings with three rounds left to play. They now hold the advantage in the race for the Finnish title – and a chance to lift the Veikkausliiga trophy for the second consecutive year.
KuPS’ next match comes in three days, when they host Gnistan at home in Kuopio.
