Monica Isaksen came off the bench and scored with her first touch to secure a key 2-0 away win for Brann against HJK Helsinki in their Europa Cup qualifier. The goal came in the 61st minute shortly after she replaced Carina Alfredsen, giving the Norwegian side a strong advantage ahead of next week's second leg.
- Scored with the first touch, a solid starting point for Brann, said Monica Isaksen after the match.
The victory keeps Brann's European hopes alive after their heavy Champions League qualifying exit in Vienna. Cecilie Redisch Kvamme provided the pass for Isaksen's decisive finish, and the same pairing was instrumental in doubling the lead later on. Instead of shooting for a second goal herself, Isaksen unselfishly laid the ball off for Brenna Lovera to score.
The return leg of this second qualifying round tie will be played in Bergen next Wednesday. Brann's men's team, currently seventh in Eliteserien with 29 points, face league leaders Viking at home on October 9th. The team's last five league results show two wins, one draw and two defeats. For a complete squad overview, visit our squad page.
Read the full report at NRK Sport (nb)
