The clash between Orenburg and Lokomotiv on the 14th of August promises plenty of drama as both sides battle for different goals in the new season. Orenburg will be looking to protect their home turf with everything they have while Lokomotiv continue to search for any spark after a tough run of results. The atmosphere in the stadium should be electric and the boys from Orenburg know how to make life difficult for visitors on their artificial pitch.
Team Form
- Orenburg picked up four points from their opening games against Rostov and Rubin showing they can grind out results when it matters most.
- Lokomotiv have gone four matches without a single win in the league and cup with their attack struggling to score more than one goal per game.
- The Moscow side have only managed one victory in their last nine outings and that win came with plenty of luck after a red card and a missed penalty from the opponents.
Orenburg started the campaign slowly too but their task is clear survival in the top flight and every point at home counts double for them. Lokomotiv on the other hand are losing key players every week with no fresh faces coming in to strengthen the starting eleven which is leaving the squad thin and nervous ahead of each fixture.
Tactical Analysis
- Orenburg excel at set pieces and counter attacks on their home surface where they have taken points off stronger sides in the past.
- Lokomotiv lack creativity upfront and their defence looks shaky when forced to play under pressure for long spells.
- The visitors still have talents like Karpukas and Batrakov but the constant transfer rumours mean the whole team is playing with one eye on the exit door.
With big teams like Zenit and Spartak already punishing Orenburg heavily this season the hosts will be extra motivated to avoid another heavy defeat against a side that is no longer seen as a giant. Lokomotiv have dropped far from their old standards and that gives the home side a real chance to grab something positive from the game.
Betting Proposal
Looking at the current form and the way both teams are set up this fixture points towards a tight contest where Orenburg can at least avoid defeat. The types around the league are backing the home side not to lose and that looks like the smartest play on the day.
Orenburg not to lose at home. Home win or draw at odds of 1.75.
