Daugava clinch first ever Latvian crown

FC Daugava Daugavpils sealed their first ever Latvian championship with a game to spare as they defeated bottom-of-the-table FB Gulbene 2005 3-1 to leave their lead insurmountable.

Going into Sunday's game four points ahead of nearest challengers Skonto FC and defending champions FK Ventspils, Ivan Tabanov's men knew a win would seal glory, and any early anxieties were quelled when Stanly Ibe went clean through to slot in after 17 minutes. Seven minutes later, the Nigerian forward doubled the lead with his 11th of the season to give his side some breathing space.

However, it was not all one-way traffic and Gulbene fought back, with Artūrs Karašausks striking shortly after the break to test Daugava's nerves. Ivan Gluško turned into this own net six minutes later, though, and the league leaders closed out the game to secure the points and the title. "We controlled the match throughout, yet it was really tough waiting for the final whistle," said Tabanov. "But now we are so happy, as is the whole city of Daugavpils. We did it."

Top scorers in the division, and having not lost a home league game all season, Daugava host Ventspils in their final match of the season on Saturday, with the visitors hoping they can jump above Skonto into second place.