Victory at last for Ventspils

FK Ventspils can finally bask in the glory of a first Latvian title after several years of competing at the top end of the Virsliga.

Biggest prize
Ventspils have been major players in Latvia since their foundation in 1977, winning three Latvian Cups and taking on the likes of Newcastle United FC, VfB Stuttgart and Rosenborg BK in Europe, but the biggest prize eluded them until 29 October when they clinched a maiden championship.

Painful journey
Club president Jurijs Bespalovs has suffered his share of heartache in the quest for league success. An unexpected defeat by FC Dinaburg resulted in the 2001 crown going to Skonto FC, while a draw against the same opponents cost Ventspils in 2002, with Skonto again the beneficiaries. "The times when Ventspils let the title slip were tragedies for me, but I knew I would not quit football as a loser," said Bespalovs. He was right. Sunday's 1-0 victory against rock-bottom BSK Dižvanagi earned that belated gold medal.

Nervy finale
Ventspils certainly did their best to test Bespalovs's nerves, leaving it until the 82nd minute to score through an Igors Slesarcuks penalty. "It was tough," admitted the president. "We have come a long way to earn this success. I am happy Ventspils are now the best club in Latvia." Much of the credit can go to coach Roman Grigorchuk. The man who twice denied Ventspils the championship as coach of Dinaburg, set Ventspils on the road to glory by helping them lift the 2005 Latvian Cup soon after taking charge.

'Huge pressure'
"Of course I am delighted," he said. "Over recent matches I have felt huge pressure as I could not face losing top spot, having been there all season. But we have finally proved that we are better than our rivals and we are deserving champions." However, the celebrations in the cosy coastal town of 45,000 could not dent the workaholic coach's focus. "We should not rejoice too much," he said. "We have to analyse our successful season and learn how we can improve."