Opening
Today's game against Akron looks convenient only on paper. Before the match Baltika are fifth: 26 games, 46 points, goal difference 37:16. Akron are 13th: 26 games, 24 points, goals 32:45. The numbers show the main difference: Baltika rest on balance and structure, Akron live in a far more nervous mode, allowing too much at their own goal.
The most telling figure for the hosts is 16 conceded, one of the best defensive records in the league. But there is a correction: Baltika have drawn their last four matches and in the last five have conceded 1.20 goals per game on average. The team has not fallen apart, but the old automatic clean sheets no longer look cast-iron.
