
An extra-time goal from Mantas Kuklys earned VMFD Žalgiris a 1-0 victory against FK Ekranas in the Lithuanian Super Cup.
There was a paucity of chances for both sides during normal time. Ekranas forward Arsenij Buinickij spurned the best opening of the first half but headed wide when unmarked. Žalgiris striker Kamil Bilinski had an even better opportunity after racing clear on 69 minutes, but was thwarted by an excellent tackle from Ekranas goalkeeper Tadas Kauneckas.
Extra time was therefore required, with Žalgiris eventually finding a breakthrough on 102 minutes, Mantas Kuklys' shot from the edge of the penalty area creeping in via a slight deflection off Giedrius Tomkevičius. Three minutes later Aivaras Braюinskas preserved his side's lead with a vital save to deny Egidijus Varnas from close range.
"It was a very difficult game against a strong opponent," match-winner Kuklys told UEFA.com. "We made a nervous start but then played our own game in the second half. We probably wanted this more. I dedicate this trophy to my newborn son. Also it's a big day for the team and all the supporters."
Ekranas head coach Valdas Urbonas remained upbeat despite the defeat. "I think many wrote us off but for at least 70 minutes we played well and showed that we were worthy opponents," he said. "We adopted defensive tactics which were ruined by their goal. However, even then we had a chance to equalise."
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