Kaunas make it six in a row
Sunday, November 7, 2004
Article summary
FBK Kaunas have won the Lithuanian title for the sixth straight year by beating rivals FK Ekranas on the final day.
Article body
Velička victorious
The hero was international striker Andrius Velička, who scored both goals for the away side in their 2-0 victory. However, Kaunas had to wait until the 57th minute for Velička to break the deadlock, doing so with a powerful header. Following the late dismissal of Ekranas midfielder Aurimas Kučys, the 25-year-old Velička then wrapped up the victory by converting an added-time penalty won by Andrius Gedgaudas.
Threat to match
Yet, the match had very nearly not taken place. Both teams had entered the final weekend level on 62 points but the A Lyga governing body decided to award Kaunas a 3-0 forfeit before a ball had been kicked, citing irregularities at Ekranas. However, the Lithuanian Football Federation ruled against the decision, meaning the match went ahead as planned on Sunday.
Final reckoning
Meanwhile, FK Atlantas finished third with 50 points after a 1-1 draw at FK Šilute. FK Žalgiris Vilnius were 3-0 winners at FK Sūduva to clinch fourth, while FK Vetra Vilnius also won on their travels, 3-1, at FK Vilnius to consolidate fifth place. Šilute, Sūduva and Vilnius finished sixth, seventh and eighth respectively.
