A family rivalry, a convincing win over Kechnec and a familiar goalkeeper back at Čermeľ
Lokomotiva Košice continued its summer preparations with a convincing 6:0 victory over FK Kechnec.
The fixture was arranged after the originally planned friendly in Poprad was cancelled, and it provided Loky with another useful test ahead of the start of the competitive season.
There was also an unusual family storyline.
Lokomotiva captain Erik Pačinda lined up against his younger brother Adrián, who plays for Kechnec.
Both brothers enjoyed the occasion, with plenty of friendly teasing in the days leading up to the match. Erik ultimately had more reason to celebrate as Lokomotiva confirmed its status as favourites with a comfortable six-goal victory.
From a sporting point of view, the game also gave Loky an opportunity to work against a team defending deep for long periods. Several players found the net, making it another valuable step in the final stages of pre-season.
Leško back in familiar surroundings
Another important story from the match was goalkeeper Martin Leško, who has returned to Lokomotiva following his spell with Slávia TU Košice.
The 28-year-old already knows the club and Čermeľ well. He previously played for Lokomotiva from 2020 and experienced both good and difficult periods during his earlier spell.
Speaking about his return, Leško highlighted the club’s ambitions as well as the strong relationship he developed with Lokomotiva during his previous years here.
He believes the team can build on the strong rhythm established during the spring part of last season.
The ambitions for the new campaign are clear, with Loky aiming to compete near the top and challenge for promotion to Slovakia’s second division.
Pre-season enters its final stage
Lokomotiva now has just one pre-season friendly remaining, away to Lučenec.
The team’s first competitive test will then follow in the opening round of the Slovnaft Cup against the winner of OFK Perín vs TJ Družstevník Malá Ida.
The full original article, including interviews with Erik Pačinda, Adrián Pačinda and Martin Leško, is available on -> Košice Online
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