Beniušis, 40, who does not want to end his career: an old horse does not damage the furrow

As noted in the press release distributed by the Šilo club, taking into account the fact that R. Beniušis scored 41 goals in 2020, the decision not to retire from football is completely rational.

“Throw everything away after such a beautiful season? I hardly think about it. I feel like I can still do it, and the confidence of the team leaders after such a season motivates me even more. Although I receive pressure from my family for a career that never ends, soccer is in my blood and I don’t want to give it up. Another thing is that I want my growing son to see me playing. In short, I myself have a wish, “Šilas” still loves me, why not? “R. Beniušis asked rhetorically.

Ironically, the forward first thought more seriously about the end of his career eight years ago. After the stage in “Sūduva” of Marijampolė, no one needed the services of a 32-year-old forward.

“Yes, there was a turning point when I was thinking about what to do next in life. And while I was thinking, I was invited to join Pakruojis “Kruoja”, I went, suddenly we became the vice-champions of the country and I felt that my second youth was beginning.

A few years later, Šilė and I became the winners of the First League, so I was able to continue enjoying what I was doing. Of course, it must be emphasized that I was very lucky to never have had a serious injury. “I think that’s the main reason I can play at forty,” said the forward.

After spending two years in Šile, the footballer left for Šilutė, then Vilnius Paneris, and then returned to Kazlų Rūda.

“When Paneris collapsed, the Šilo leaders called and made it clear that I would not stay at home, but would drive and help (smiles). I remember later they noticed that the club is clean of “terrible people”, wanting to translate a new sheet and forget what it was.

I thought that next to the house, this offer is good. Already in the first season we got second place. I felt there was no lack of motivation, I still have something to show the youngsters so I stayed for the second season as well. That season, we deservedly won the title of winner and, very importantly, we won a place among the First League teams on a sporting level, ”said the Šilo leader.

Before the new season, Kazlų Rūda’s representative team managed to play five games. During them, R. Beniušis scored four accurate shots.

“I am a little scared because I understand that here I will have to give myself much more. I don’t know if I will stretch after 90 minutes, but I have the support of coaches and teammates. On the one hand, it is a pleasure, on the other hand, I say quite clearly that those who have high expectations would look at my passport.

Of course, after those control games, I realized that we could play, and personally I realized that I could contribute 10-12 goals to the team’s scoreboard. If I already stay to play, then I want to do it 100%. Sure, there are those who say that I am going to score 20 goals, but I answer them to finish the drop (smiles).

Still, the difference between the First and Second Leagues is considerable. The biggest: speed. I myself will not be surprised by the speed. On the other hand, running without thinking is pointless, the next time you stand up you can do more. After all, an old horse does not damage the furrow, ”said R. Beniušis.

March 10 After the LFF Executive Committee meeting, it will be clear all the teams that will participate in the 2021 season. The first league is expected to start on March 20.