The first round saw another upset for "Metalist 1925". After losing to Poltava in the central match of the ninth round in Group B, Kharkiv's team significantly narrowed the gap from the leader. However, despite their coach Patrick van Leeuwen fielding his strongest lineup, it did not help.

Already in the opening minutes, Poltava could have decided the winner of the match, but Denis Galenkov failed to capitalize on a one-on-one opportunity with the opposing goalkeeper. After Vladimir Odaryuk's shot, the nominal hosts' crossbar denied them another chance. Maxim Marusich's goal in the 45+1st minute merely confirmed Poltava's superiority.

In the second half, Slobozhans made efforts to salvage the situation, with foreign player Ari Moore being particularly active after coming on as a substitute, but Poltava held firm. Now "city dwellers" are 10 points ahead of "Metalist 1925," which does not hide its desire to improve in class.

Today's match between the pursuers of Poltava — FC "YUKSA" and "Viktoriya" — ended in a draw — 1:1, benefiting Poltava.

"Dinaz" recorded its first win (2:0 against "Metalurh") and somewhat improved its tournament position.

In Group A, Bukovyna is gradually turning things around after a poor start. The Chernivtsi team celebrated their second victory in a row this time over "Mynay" (2:1), who recently slowed down and worsened their chances of reaching the top quartet.

Bukovyna is now third, eight points behind the leader — "Agrobusiness."

Another representative of Khmelnytskyi Oblast, "Epitsentr," is second, having taken the lead over their fellow team from "Podillya" — 2:1.

Results and standings tables