Back when Valmiera football spent many years in the 1st League, clashes with neighbors FK Smiltene/BJSS were a regular occurrence, always attracting extra attention and earning the label of the Vidzeme derby.
After Valmiera established itself in the Virslīga, the meetings became less frequent, mostly involving reserve teams, and at times Valmiera players even helped Smiltene maintain their place in Latvia’s second tier.
Now, as Valmiera FC continues its journey back, the two Northern Vidzeme cities are once again settling their rivalry on the pitch — reigniting local pride and fan passion. On April 12, a strong crowd gathered at the Valmiera Olympic Centre, including both home supporters and a vocal group from Smiltene, creating a fantastic football atmosphere.
The players delivered — offering an intense, competitive match with plenty of action and goals.
It’s hard to say how the game might have unfolded if the visitors had taken their early chances against Haralds Kalniņš. In the first half, Valmiera did not dominate — neither in possession nor in goals. Smiltene showed strong determination and refused to let their opponents settle into rhythm.
The breakthrough came somewhat unexpectedly in the 35th minute, when a defensive mistake allowed Rojs Bušs to win the ball, setting up Brazilian forward Gleilson for his first goal of the season — 1–0.
From that moment on, Valmiera’s confidence grew, but the first half ended without further goals. The second half, however, told a different story, as Valmiera’s individual quality and physical strength became decisive.
One of the goals of the season came from right-back Touki Yamamura, who unleashed a powerful long-range shot into the far corner. Soon after, Vladimirs Stepanovs dribbled past several defenders and struck the post — the rebound falling perfectly for Mahmadou Dembele, who headed home his third goal of the season, all three scored with his head.
The fourth goal came quickly and efficiently through two of the team’s most experienced players — Mārcis Ērglis delivered a long pass to Fraj Kairmani, who finished with a single touch.
Valmiera had a chance to add a fifth late in the game after Alekss Tkačenko was fouled in the box, but Lenny Manisa’s penalty was saved by Smiltene captain and goalkeeper Dagnis Sausais.
The victory left no doubts — Valmiera FC fully deserved the three points, making it three wins from three matches at the start of the LVBET League season. After three rounds, they sit at the top of the table alongside FK Metta, with both teams still unbeaten.
Next up, on April 18 at 18:00, Valmiera FC will face Mārupes SC at Jaunmārupe Stadium.
