"Neftochimik" defeated "Zagorets" (Nova Zagora) 2-0 at "Lazur" Stadium, returning to winning ways in the Southeast Third League during their Matchday VII fixture.
For the "sheikhs," the absence of Kosta Dalev, who was suspended following a red card in the previous match, was compounded by an unexpected injury to his brother, Gencho. After Gencho suffered a strain during warm-ups, Pavel Tachev was brought into the starting lineup from the opening minutes.
The game began with both sides playing on equal footing. "Neftochimik" controlled most of the possession, while the visitors defended using a low block. The "Greens"' efficiency became evident midway through the first half – after intercepting the ball in the "Zagorets" penalty area, it reached Anton Uzunov, who slotted it into an empty net to make it 1-0.
In the 42nd minute, the score widened to 2-0 in favor of the Burgas side. The two-goal lead was secured via a cross from the flank, which an opposing player inadvertently deflected into his own net.
In the second half, the team led by Miroslav Mindev attempted to fight their way back into the match but failed to create any clear-cut chances against Velichkov.
Thanks to this victory, "Neftochimik" climbed the table and now sits in 11th place with 7 points, while "Zagorets" remains just ahead of them with 10 points.
Todor Kiselichkov's squad is now preparing for their postponed Matchday V fixture. The match will be played on Wednesday, September 23, at 17:00 at "Lazur" Stadium.