In China’s second-tier league, Lithuanian defender Rimvydas Sadauskas continues to make a significant impact for Chongqing Tonglianglong, who sit near the top of the table after a thrilling 2-1 win over Shenzhen Juniors. The victory was sealed deep into stoppage time, thanks to a decisive goal in the seventh minute of added time.
The 29-year-old defender, now in his second season in China, started once again and played the full 90 minutes. Before the match, Chongqing Tonglianglong led third-placed Yanbian Longding by six points and were just three points shy of league leaders Liaoning Tieren.
The home side opened the scoring in the 66th minute. Following a quick throw-in, Brazilian midfielder Leonardo found Xiaoqiang He in the penalty area, who headed the ball powerfully into the net to put Chongqing ahead.
However, Shenzhen Juniors fought back with a swift counterattack just nine minutes later. Feiyang Lin capitalized on a fast transition from defense to offense to level the score at 1-1.
The match winner came late in stoppage time, when Spanish striker Jose Carrillo, who has spent most of his career in Spain’s La Liga 2, was again set up by Leonardo. Carrillo calmly finished inside the box to clinch all three points for the home side.
Sadauskas played a crucial role throughout the match, earning a yellow card in the first half and continuing his ever-present run in the team, having featured in all 18 matches so far this season. He has also scored once for Chongqing Tonglianglong this campaign.
With this win, Chongqing Tonglianglong have accumulated 40 points from 18 matches, stretching their lead over Yanbian Longding to nine points after the latter’s defeat today. With twelve games remaining in the season, Sadauskas and his teammates are firmly positioned in the promotion spots, with the top two clubs earning promotion to the Chinese Super League.
Chongqing Tonglianglong will look to continue their strong form when they visit Shaanxi Union next Saturday.
