Here is how the matches of the fifth round of Freedom QJ League B played out.
Altay's Lost Victory
The team from Ust-Kamenogorsk finally managed to secure their first point, ending their home match against Atyrau in a 1:1 draw. However, this result might still feel somewhat disappointing for Pavel Evteev's squad.
The thing is, after opening the scoring as early as the 5th minute thanks to Daulet Dautbaev, Altay held the upper hand right until the second-half stoppage time. It was only when the playing time had virtually run out that Albert Sidikhov scored the equalizer.
Nevertheless, after a string of defeats, this draw could provide a boost to the players' morale. Furthermore, they are now only two points behind Kyzylzhar, who sit just above them in the standings.
Yelimay Thrashes Kyzylzhar Away
The team from Petropavl failed to widen the gap between themselves and Altay following a heavy home defeat, as Yelimay slotted four unanswered goals past the hosts. Daryn Ualkhanov scored a brace, while Sanzhar Bekenov and Anas Adylkhanov added one goal each to the tally.
Thanks to this victory, Yelimay moved closer to the middle of the standings. Moreover, they are now just three points away from the fourth spot, currently occupied by Zhetisu.
A Three-Way Tie at the Top
The Semirechye side solidified their fourth-place position thanks to a sensational home win over Zhaiyk. Aibyn Dauletuly opened the scoring in the 17th minute, and the guests from Uralsk simply could not find an answer.
This marked the very first drop of points for Zhaiyk, and their rivals did not miss the opportunity to capitalize. Thanks to Amirkhan Abai's brace, Zhenis defeated Ontustyk (2:1) at the Astana Arena, while Khan-Tengri claimed a big away win over Okzhetpes (4:1) in Kokshetau, with Zhanadi Zhumabek turning into the main hero by netting a hat-trick.
Now, there are three teams tied with 12 points each in the championship race: Zhaiyk, Khan-Tengri, and Zhenis. However, the standings remain tight, so the most exciting part is yet to come.
Top Scorer after Week 5: Zhanadi Zhumabek (Khan-Tengri, 6 goals).
Top Assistants after Week 5: Yaroslav Bortnik (Atyrau) and Vadim Saibel (Elimai, 3 assists each).
