The OBOS-ligaen resumed today following a month-long summer break, and Latvian international Lūkass Vapne returned to league action with both a key assist and a missed penalty as Sogndal IL were held to a 1-1 draw at home by struggling Stabæk.
The 21-year-old midfielder had a significant week off the pitch as well-Sogndal officially completed his permanent transfer from Latvian side FK Metta for an undisclosed fee just days before the match. Vapne was once again in the starting XI and played a pivotal role in the first half.
Sogndal entered the match as clear favourites, especially after a strong performance in their goalless draw against league leaders Lillestrøm on June 28. They immediately took control of the match, dominating possession and chances early on.
Their breakthrough came in the 20th minute, with Vapne delivering a pinpoint cross from the right wing to the far post, where Norwegian defender Martin Sjølstad rose highest to head home. It was Vapne’s second assist of the season.
Although Sogndal largely controlled the game, one costly mistake in the second half proved decisive. Kenyan defender Rooney Onyango brought down a Stabæk attacker inside the box, conceding a penalty which Magnus Lankhof-Dahlby converted to make it 1-1.
Sogndal pushed hard for a winner and were given a golden opportunity late on when Sebastian Pedersen was fouled in the box. Vapne stepped up to take the penalty and initially found the back of the net, but after a longer consultation, the referee ruled that the ball had made contact with Vapne’s standing foot before the shot, resulting in a double touch and ordering a retake.
On the second attempt, Vapne again aimed for the same corner, striking the ball with power, but it was at a good height for debutant goalkeeper Magnus Sjøeng, who made a brilliant save to deny the Latvian midfielder.
Despite the disappointment, Vapne had a strong performance overall and continues to impress in his first full season in Norway’s second tier. He now has two goals and two assists in 14 appearances.
Sogndal, however, are winless in their last three matches and currently sit sixth in the OBOS-ligaen with 21 points from 14 games. They’ll aim to bounce back quickly when they travel to face Moss in just four days’ time.
