Zenit on the rise in Russia

Hulk opened Zenit's account in the 21st minute only for Artem Dzjuba (26') to level, but the visitor was ahead again by the interval thanks to Axel Witsel (41').

Spartak lost Nicolas Pareja to a second yellow card on 69 minutes and just two minutes later Zenit went further clear as Witsel doubled his tally.

Roman Shirokov made it four on 78 minutes, while Emmanuel Emenike (82') pulled one back for the host before Spartak's Juan Insaurralde saw red late on.

Krasnodar ran out 2-1 winner over Kuban Krasnodar with the host's goals coming in the final five minutes.

Kuban looked set to earn the bragging rights in the local derby after Aras Ozbiliz fired it in front after 55 minutes, but Krasnodar took the points thanks to goals by Eugeni Shipitsyn (85') and Alexander Martynovich (90').