Aris delivered its most encouraging performance of the pre-season training camp in Poland despite suffering a narrow 1-0 defeat to Korona Kielce in the team's third friendly match.
The display marked another step forward in the team's preparations, with clear signs of improvement from game to game proving particularly encouraging as the new season approaches.
Our side controlled possession for long spells and created the better opportunities during the first half. Pajé was at the heart of most attacking moves, while Effaghè, Charalambous and Nikolić also threatened, but their efforts either failed to hit the target or were denied by the Korona goalkeeper.
Aris once again showcased an organised, high press and fluent ball circulation. As expected at this stage of pre-season, the players began to feel the effects of the demanding workload as the match wore on, particularly against opponents who had already opened their domestic league campaign. Korona capitalised in the 35th minute, with Bong finishing from close range to score what proved to be the decisive goal.
Head Coach Artem Radkov's side started the match with Vaná Alves in goal, behind a back four of Yago, Matysik, Lelle and Correia. Charalambous, Pajé and Sarfo formed the midfield trio, with Sarrfo operating in the holding role. Gaustad and Nikolić lined up on the flanks, while Effaghè led the attack.
Aris continued to dictate the tempo after the interval, pushing higher up the pitch and creating several excellent chances to equalize. The closest came in the 86th minute when Pourikkos struck the post with a first-time effort after a well-worked move.
At half-time, Head Coach Radkov changed the entire starting eleven. Zadro took over in goal, with Kassianidis, A. Demetriou, Loukoumbar and Hadjiyiannis forming the back four. Akamba operated as the holding midfielder alongside Galyata and Triminitis, while Werton made his unofficial debut on the left wing, Neokleous featured on the right, and Pourikkos led the line. Sané replaced Werton in the 75th minute.
Despite the result, the overall performance offered plenty of positives, with the team's progress throughout the pre-season camp continuing to move in the right direction.
