Sandefjord Fotball dropped two points in the Eliteserien as Viking scored a late equalizer for a 1-1 draw at Release Arena. The match, played on September 4th, extended Sandefjord's unbeaten run to three games, though they remain 12th in the table with 20 points.
How did the match against Viking unfold?
According to Stavanger Aftenblad, Sandefjord let the victory slip away in stoppage time. Substitute Henrik Bjørdal secured the equalizer for Viking with a late goal that earned the visitors a point. Sandefjord had taken the lead earlier in the match but were unable to hold on in the closing minutes. This result means Sandefjord stays in 12th place in the standings with 20 points from 19 matches. The team has scored 16 goals and conceded 24 this season, giving them a goal difference of minus eight. You can track the team's position on our standings page.
Who were the key players in the fixture?
RA Stavanger reported that Viking's starting lineup included players like Peter Christiansen and Zlatko Tripic. In an interview the day before the match, Bjarte Lunde Aarsheim had described both Erik Botheim and Christiansen as centre-forwards, but told the outlet that both could also play on the wing. Viking's new signings began the match on the bench. For Sandefjord, it was Tobias Borkeeiet who scored the team's goal. Zlatko Tripic registered an assist for Viking. Match statistics from ESPN show Sandefjord held their own against a strong Viking side for large portions of the contest.
What do the recent results say about their form?
Sandefjord's 1-1 draw with Viking was their third consecutive stalemate. This run of points has kept them clear of the relegation battle, although they trail league leaders Bodø/Glimt by 27 points. The team's last three results are all draws, meaning they are unbeaten in their last three outings. Manager Andreas Tegström has several absent players to contend with. According to our verified information, Devon Koswal, Filip Loftesnes Bjune, Marcus Melchior, and Nikolaj Möller are currently sidelined with injuries. You can see the complete list on our injuries page.
What's next for Sandefjord?
The team's next challenge is a difficult away fixture against league leaders Bodø/Glimt on September 13th. This will be a major test for a Sandefjord side looking to turn their draws into a surprise victory. Bodø/Glimt have had a strong season and top the table comfortably. Sandefjord will need a solid defensive performance to get a result at Aspmyra Stadion. The match is part of a tough stretch in their fixtures schedule.
