Kazemian gives Persepolis a perfect start [VIDEO]

PFDC – ABADAN, Substitute striker Javad Kazemian gave Persepolis FC a perfect start into the 2012/13 Persian Gulf League season, scoring the sole goal of the match late in the Reds’ opener against Sanat Naft in Abadan.

Portugese Persepolis boss Manuel Jose had lined up his team in a 4-4-2 formation with Karim Ansarifard and Mohammad Ghazi paired up in attack, whereas leaving stars like Ali Karimi, Mohammad Nouri and Mehdi Mahdavikia on the bench.

Recent signing Eamon Zayed and Mehrzad Madanchi were not in the squad due to their late arrival while Gholamreza Rezaei was sidelined injured.

Nevertheless, the visitors were the clearly better side from the beginning, dominating the proceedings, but still had problems creating clear cut scoring chances.

The best chance was wasted by Ansarifard, who’s excellent header was denied by a spectacular save.

The Tehran giants finally broke the deadlock one minute from time when Karimi, who had come on for Ghazi in second half, sent a throughball to Kazemian. The ball reached the striker, who had replaced Ansarifard shortly before, after Abouzar Rahimi had failed to stop the pass and made no mistake in front of goal.

Also on Thursday, Fajr Sepasi defeated Zob Ahan 3-0, promoted Gahar Zagros suffered a 0-1 home defeat to Malavan, Saba Qom humbled Paykan 4-0 and Naft Tehran and Rah Ahan struggled to a 1-1 draw.

On Friday, reigning champions Sepahan will host Mes Kerman, Tehran giants Esteghlal take on Aluminim Hormozgan in Azadi, whereas Damash will entertain Foolad and Saipa will travel to Tabriz to face Tractor Sazi.

Below comes Javad Kazemian’s goal on PFDCTV.