Liberian striker Sam Johnson helped his Norwegian top-flight club, Valerenga Fotball, escape a late defeat after he scored a late equalizer while playing away.
Valerenga, which is eyeing a place for in top four of the league at the end of the season, faced fifth-placed side, Ranheim, in that game. Playing at home, Ranheim had the backing of the fans to motivate them in their quest for a win against the visitors. They brought the stadium to light with a 19th minute lead which was equalized eight minutes later.
Their early lead came through 26-year-old Norwegian midfielder, Kristopher Lokberg. Lokberg’s goal celebration lasted for only eight minutes when Valerenga got the score leveled through Sam Johnson. Johnson made his way through Ranheim’s defense with a brilliant run before beating Even Barli in goal.
The two goals scored in the 19th and 28th minutes turned out to be the only goals of the first half, with the score remaining 1-1 heading for the break. The second half came as a different one from the first half with both Valerenga and Ranheim struggling to get on the scoresheet in the early minutes.
It was until 15 minutes in the second half when fans witnessed the third goal of the encounter. It was the home side that took the lead again. Norwegian defender, Erik Tonne, was the man to bring smiles back on the faces of Ranheim’s supporters when he scored in the 60th minute.
But Ranheim failed to defend their well-deserved lead. Five minutes to the end of the full 90 minutes, Sam Johnson got the score leveled again. Johnson headed a cross from Simen Kritiansen Juklerod, saving Valerenga from losing with the match.
Valerenga has yet to win their last two league games, as they have only managed two draws. They will be hoping to turn things around when they face Haugesund on Sunday, May 6 at home.
Sam Johnson’s beautiful start to the season continues with the forward being able to score five goals in seven league games. He sits second on the goal scoring chart with two goals less than Stromsgodset’s striker, Marcus Pedersen, who has scored seven goals.
