Esbjerg fB-OB

Sunday 2/3 13.00

Last week we wrote, ”They signed striker Martin Pusic from Brann Bergen. His stats tell us that he is probably not the saint Esbjerg needs.” We were so wrong. After the first two matches (including the match against Fiorentina) he has been praised in the media and there is a good reason for that. He may not have that individual poise to make one dribble around an opponent and put the ball in the back of the net. But his strength is quite impressive and he can hold off a defender. During last week’s match against FC Nordsjælland, Pusic and Mushaga Bakenga complimented each other well where Pusic was the strong target man and Bakenga was the small fast forward. The balance between defence and offence has been one of the reasons that Esbjerg’s autumn was dismal. Midfielder Magnus Lekven has returned after a long injury and he has stabilised the centre of the pitch. Offensive midfielder Mohammed Fellah is out due to the injury he sustained in the match versus FC Nordjsælland. Bakenga could start along side Pusic. At the other end of the pitch Martin Dubravka showed why Esbjerg purchase him instead of waiting for his contract to expire. His reflexes were remarkable and even though he was implemented in the conceded goal he made a decent impression. Defender Kian Hansen will return from suspension and it will help the defence. OB (5th) got the upper hand vs. FC Midtjylland. They played well in the first half but during the second FC Midtjylland got more possession and bigger chances. In the end it looked like a draw but midfielder Ari Skulason’s shot hit the upright and the ball went in just as stoppage time started. The good news for OB is that winger Emil Larsen most likely will be ready for this match. Last time these two squads played Larsen played well and topped it of with a solo goal where he turned international Peter Ankersen and outsprinted him but due to the injury he might not be in fit enough to do it again. Unfortunately striker Mustafa Abdellaoue had to be substituted due to an injury. He played for the reserves in midweek so he might be on the bench.

Esbjerg needed a saint, and according to the media they found him. Pusic could be a possible quality signing for the hard tested Esbjerg squad. The advantage of home field will be in play. Esbjerg’s home SoTR of 64% is the best in the league. The whole team reminisced of that we saw at the start of the season and we believe they will come out on top in this match up.

Tip of the Week: 1 - 2.45 at Mermaidbet