Pyunik pick up sixth Armenian Cup

FC Pyunik won the Armenian Cup for the sixth time – joining FC Mika as the most successful club in the history of the competition − courtesy of a 1-0 win against holders and Premier League champions FC Shirak.

The Yerevan side's victory, secured by Taron Voskanyan's 40th-minute goal, came four days after they lost by the same scoreline to Shirak, a result which enabled their opponents to wrap up the championship with two matches to spare.

Voskanyan, following up, made the breakthrough from close range after Shirak goalkeeper Artur Harutyunyan could only parry the ball following a corner. Shirak were the stronger team thereafter, but paid for their profligacy, with Levon Pachajyan, Yoro Lamine Ly and Karen Muradyan spurning opportunities.

"This is the first trophy for this generation [of players]," said Pyunik coach Rafael Nazaryan, whose squad has an average age of less than 20. "This victory is very important for their confidence. I'm happy that my players were also brave on the pitch. We beat very strong opposition who were more experienced and aggressive. Our commitment was the key to a success very few people believed in."