Kalju remain perfect with dominant win over Kuressaare
Photo: Kris Süld (EJL, Premium Liiga) Nõmme Kalju continued their flawless start to the Premium Liiga season, securing a convincing 4-0 victory over FC Kuressaare and maintaining their perfect record and defensive record after three rounds.
Coming into the match as clear favourites, Kalju quickly took control, pushing for an early breakthrough. Their pressure paid off midway through the first half when a well-worked attacking move ended with a composed finish by Mattias Männilaan for his first of the league season that gave the home side a deserved lead.
Kalju continued to dominate possession and territory, though clear chances remained limited for stretches. Still, their efficiency in key moments proved decisive. Just before half-time, a powerful strike from distance by Danylo Mashchenko doubled the advantage, putting the hosts firmly in control at the break.
Kuressaare showed brief signs of life after the interval, creating a couple of half-chances, but Kalju’s defensive organisation remained solid. The visitors struggled to truly threaten, while at the other end, Kalju continued to find space and opportunities.
The game was effectively decided in the second half when Kalju added a third goal by Nikita Ivanov following a quick attacking move, capitalising on defensive gaps. Late on, a costly defensive error from Kuressaare allowed Kalju to seal the result with a fourth goal via substitute Mihhail Orlov, completing a comprehensive performance.
With three wins from three matches and no goals conceded, Kalju head into the international break in perfect form, looking like early title contenders.
Nõmme Kalju vs FC Kuressaare – 4-0 (2-0)
Goals: Männilaan 19′, Mashchenko 41′, Ivanov 75′, Orlov 89′
Round 34
FC Flora
Nõmme United
Tammeka
Kuressaare
Nõmme Kalju
# Team P
W D L
GF GA GD Pts
1
FCI Levadia32
25
6
1
87
22
65
81
2
FC Flora33
19
1
13
63
47
16
58
3
Paide32
17
6
9
52
39
13
57
4
Nõmme Kalju32
15
6
11
54
33
21
51
5
Tammeka32
15
2
15
42
51
-9
47
6
Harju33
15
2
16
48
48
0
47
7
Pärnu Vaprus32
10
6
16
43
63
-20
36
8
Kuressaare32
10
5
17
34
51
-17
35
9
Nõmme United32
10
1
21
50
74
-24
31
10
Narva Trans32
5
5
22
25
70
-45
20
