Throttur Reykjavik 2-1 UMF Njardvik: Late Winner Settles Tight 1. Deild Karla Battle

Throttur Reykjavik claimed a hard-fought 2-1 victory over UMF Njardvik in the Iceland 1. Deild Karla on September 14, 2026. A late second-half goal proved decisive in a contest that swung both ways, giving the Reykjavik club a vital three points in their push up the second-tier standings.

Played under the lights at Throttur’s home ground, the match was a classic 1. Deild Karla encounter: intense, physical, and full of momentum shifts. Throttur started brightly, Njardvik responded with a spirited equalizer, and the home side found the winning moment when it mattered most.

Match Overview

Throttur Reykjavik began with purpose, pressing high and forcing UMF Njardvik into early mistakes. Their reward arrived in the 18th minute when Jónas Gunnarsson finished off a quick attacking move, sweeping the ball into the net after a low cross from the left.

Njardvik grew into the game after conceding. They began to find space between the lines and tested the Throttur goalkeeper with a series of shots from distance. Their persistence paid off in the 55th minute when Einar Bjarnason leveled the score, converting a well-worked move with a composed finish inside the penalty area.

Key Moments

18th minute – Throttur take the lead. Jónas Gunnarsson opened the scoring with a first-time finish, capping a bright opening spell for the hosts. The move started with a turnover in midfield and ended with a precise cross that split the Njardvik defense.

55th minute – Njardvik equalize. Einar Bjarnason brought the visitors back into the game, arriving late in the box to meet a cutback and guide the ball past the goalkeeper. The away supporters sensed a possible turnaround.

74th minute – Throttur find the winner. Kristófer Jónsson restored the home side’s advantage with a determined run and a low driven shot. The goal came after Throttur won a second ball in midfield and quickly shifted the attack to the right.

88th minute – Late pressure survived. UMF Njardvik pushed numbers forward and delivered several crosses into the box, but Throttur’s defense stood tall. A last-ditch clearance and a confident goalkeeping claim sealed the win.

Tactical Story

Throttur Reykjavik lined up in a 4-3-3 and looked to dominate possession through the middle. Their midfield trio rotated well, creating overloads on the flanks and allowing the full-backs to join the attack. The hosts’ high press was particularly effective in the first half, forcing Njardvik into rushed passes.

UMF Njardvik adjusted after the break, switching to a more direct approach and targeting the space behind Throttur’s advanced full-backs. The equalizer came from that tactical shift, but Throttur responded by tightening their shape and protecting the central areas. The winning goal showcased their ability to transition quickly from defense to attack.

Standout Players

• Jónas Gunnarsson (Throttur Reykjavik): Opened the scoring and led the line with intelligent movement, constantly pulling Njardvik’s center-backs out of position.
• Kristófer Jónsson (Throttur Reykjavik): Scored the decisive goal and drove forward with purpose throughout the second half.
• Arnar Freyr Kristinsson (Throttur Reykjavik): Made key saves, especially during Njardvik’s strongest spell after the equalizer.
• Einar Bjarnason (UMF Njardvik): Took his goal well and was his team’s most dangerous attacking player, linking play and testing the defense.
• Ólafur Jónsson (UMF Njardvik): Worked tirelessly in midfield, winning possession and starting several counterattacks.

What the Result Means

The win lifts Throttur Reykjavik’s momentum in the Iceland 1. Deild Karla promotion race. With the second tier known for its tight margins, three points at home against a direct rival can prove crucial come the final weeks of the season. Throttur’s ability to grind out a result after being pegged back will encourage their coaching staff.

For UMF Njardvik, the defeat is a frustrating setback but not a fatal one. They showed enough attacking quality to suggest they will remain competitive in the playoff and promotion conversation. The next fixture becomes an important opportunity to bounce back and keep pace with the teams above them.

Throttur Reykjavik vs UMF Njardvik: Key Facts

• Final score: Throttur Reykjavik 2-1 UMF Njardvik
• Competition: Iceland 1. Deild Karla
• Date: September 14, 2026
• Goals: Jónas Gunnarsson 18’, Einar Bjarnason 55’, Kristófer Jónsson 74’