Uzbekistan League pace-setters Pakhtakor thrashed Andijan 5-0 to maintain their seven-point lead atop the standings after 19 rounds here recently.

Anvar Soliev (7), Server Jeparov (38, 78; penalty), Aleksandr Kletskov (43) and Zaynitdin Tadjiyev (52) were on target for the defending champions. Second-placed Kuruvchi sidelined Shurtan 3-0, thanks to a brace from Ilhom Mumindjanov (75, 77). Victor Karpenko (35) netted their third goal.

Neftchi, who are nine adrift the leaders, overcame Bukhara 1-0. Sanjar Askaraliev scored their match-winner in the 50th minute.

In other matches, Tupalang beat Nasaf 1-0, Navbhor defeated Vobkent 4-1, Kyzylkum outclassed Metallurg 5-1, Mashal pipped Traktor 5-2 and Samarqand were held 1-1 by Lokomotiv.

STANDINGS: 1. Pakhtakor 53, 2. Kuruvchi 46, 3. Neftchi 44, 4. Mashal 44, 5. Kyzylkum 33.