April 29, 2003
Vlietstra Flees Denmark
Despite interest from a handful of Danish top clubs, Dutch keeper Ingeborg Vlietstra is leaving Denmark and Tvis/Holstebro for her home country of Holland. The 21-year-old, who is 190 cms tall, wants to complete her studies to become a nurse.
Meanwhile, a couple of Danish players are returning from Spain. Charlotte Højfeldt says goodbye to Gran Canaria and heads home to Viborg HK where she had a long stint in the 90's. Anne Jensen beefs up promoted Sønderjyske HK. The 28-year-old left wing, a former Brabrand and Randers player, leaves Vicar Goya Almeria.
Despite interest from a handful of Danish top clubs, Dutch keeper Ingeborg Vlietstra is leaving Denmark and Tvis/Holstebro for her home country of Holland. The 21-year-old, who is 190 cms tall, wants to complete her studies to become a nurse.
Meanwhile, a couple of Danish players are returning from Spain. Charlotte Højfeldt says goodbye to Gran Canaria and heads home to Viborg HK where she had a long stint in the 90's. Anne Jensen beefs up promoted Sønderjyske HK. The 28-year-old left wing, a former Brabrand and Randers player, leaves Vicar Goya Almeria.
HS Nord Showing Interest in Myaro
According to Boldnyt.com, Ikast/Bording's French international, Nodjialem Myaro, may be going north next season. Newly-promoted HS Nord, who is taking over veteran Deriouguina from Viborg, appears to be renting her for the next season. The native of Tchad has been benched for most of the season, only sporadically being used in the Ikast defense.
And with Gro Hammerseng joining the side, Ikast is not likely to hold onto Myaro. Ambitious HS Nord is also rumored to have placed a bid on Agnes Farkas of Ferencvaros.
According to Boldnyt.com, Ikast/Bording's French international, Nodjialem Myaro, may be going north next season. Newly-promoted HS Nord, who is taking over veteran Deriouguina from Viborg, appears to be renting her for the next season. The native of Tchad has been benched for most of the season, only sporadically being used in the Ikast defense.
And with Gro Hammerseng joining the side, Ikast is not likely to hold onto Myaro. Ambitious HS Nord is also rumored to have placed a bid on Agnes Farkas of Ferencvaros.
Leganger Stays Put
Cecilie Leganger, Norwegian keeper extraordinaire, looks set to extend her stay with Tertnes despite repeated flirts with Anja Andersen's Slagelse. Leganger's mentor, Oddvar Bjørnestad, is negotiating with Tertnes and appears to remain as part of the club's coaching staff in the future.
And if he isn't going anywhere, neither is Leganger. Bjørnestad has worked with the currently knee-injured Leganger for almost a decade and repeatedly shielded her from the heavy media interest in Norway that has surrounded her persona.
Cecilie Leganger, Norwegian keeper extraordinaire, looks set to extend her stay with Tertnes despite repeated flirts with Anja Andersen's Slagelse. Leganger's mentor, Oddvar Bjørnestad, is negotiating with Tertnes and appears to remain as part of the club's coaching staff in the future.
And if he isn't going anywhere, neither is Leganger. Bjørnestad has worked with the currently knee-injured Leganger for almost a decade and repeatedly shielded her from the heavy media interest in Norway that has surrounded her persona.
Skovbakken Survives
It took them a match more than expected, but a 30-25 (12-13) defeat of Team Esbjerg guaranteed Skovbakken a crucial stay in the Handball League. Even without their outstanding player, suspended Lotte Håndbæk, the Division 1 side from Esbjerg was capable of pushing Skovbakken well into the second half.
A crowd of 1,300 in Aarhus witnessed 7 goals from Mette Lejsgaard, Skovbakken's top scorer, in this third and decisive qualification match. Anne Krogsgaard hit 8 (6 on pen.) for the visitors who will have to wait a year before getting a new shot at League play. But in the meantime it doesn't seem unlikely that a stronger club will go after Lotte Håndbæk.
It took them a match more than expected, but a 30-25 (12-13) defeat of Team Esbjerg guaranteed Skovbakken a crucial stay in the Handball League. Even without their outstanding player, suspended Lotte Håndbæk, the Division 1 side from Esbjerg was capable of pushing Skovbakken well into the second half.
A crowd of 1,300 in Aarhus witnessed 7 goals from Mette Lejsgaard, Skovbakken's top scorer, in this third and decisive qualification match. Anne Krogsgaard hit 8 (6 on pen.) for the visitors who will have to wait a year before getting a new shot at League play. But in the meantime it doesn't seem unlikely that a stronger club will go after Lotte Håndbæk.
Leipzig Seizes Danilovic
The chase for Milica Danilovic, Lützellinden's Serbian star, is over. The 28-year-old has surprisingly decided to join the ranks of reigning German champions, HC Leipzig, for the next 3 years. Slagelse, Valencia, and Frankfurt were among the teams pursuing Daniliovic who is in the final stages of recovery from a knee injury.
A struggling Leipzig will not qualify for European tournaments next season, but will field an impressive Bundesliga team. Grit Jurack is joining them from Ikast/Bording, and line player Else Marthe Sørlie-Lybekk arrives from Nordstrand. With Ingrida Radzeviciute and Nikola Pietzsch already present, the squad will be identical to the the German national team on the back positions.
In an interview with Handball-World, Danilovic reveals that she was very close to signing with Slagelse. But she wasn't quite satisfied with their offer, although she says that could have made more money than she will in Leipzig. Danilovic, who has spent 6 years with Lützellinden, thinks that the "full package" offered by Leipzig was better. The club found a job for her partner, and she will be closer in touch with the national coach of Germany.
The chase for Milica Danilovic, Lützellinden's Serbian star, is over. The 28-year-old has surprisingly decided to join the ranks of reigning German champions, HC Leipzig, for the next 3 years. Slagelse, Valencia, and Frankfurt were among the teams pursuing Daniliovic who is in the final stages of recovery from a knee injury.
A struggling Leipzig will not qualify for European tournaments next season, but will field an impressive Bundesliga team. Grit Jurack is joining them from Ikast/Bording, and line player Else Marthe Sørlie-Lybekk arrives from Nordstrand. With Ingrida Radzeviciute and Nikola Pietzsch already present, the squad will be identical to the the German national team on the back positions.
In an interview with Handball-World, Danilovic reveals that she was very close to signing with Slagelse. But she wasn't quite satisfied with their offer, although she says that could have made more money than she will in Leipzig. Danilovic, who has spent 6 years with Lützellinden, thinks that the "full package" offered by Leipzig was better. The club found a job for her partner, and she will be closer in touch with the national coach of Germany.
April 28, 2003
Ikast Clinches Slagelse Showdown
Kristine Andersen hit 10 goals as Ikast/Bording posted a 32-28 (19-16) victory over GOG/Gudme in the third and decisive tie for a place in the Danish Championship final.
An aggressive Kristine Andersen took over from Grit Jurack, this time playing a subdued role after stellar showings in the first two semfinal brawls, and put the home team in control with an early 5-2 lead. GOG/Gudme fought back to 7-all before starting to drift again.
When Kristine Andersen struck the goal to 14-9, GOG looked on its way to a thrashing. But the deadly duo of playmaker Hørlykke and line player Assink orchestrated a fight-back and closed the gap to two goals, 18-16 in Ikast's favor, before Andersen hit another to put her team three ahead at the break.
At the beginning of the second half GOG made a dreaded substitution error which lost them possession of the ball and cost them a 2 minute suspension. Just as the match was tightly balanced. Ikast took full advantage of the gaffe, and when Narcisa Paunica scored to 24-19 five minutes later, GOG had the back against the wall.
The coaching team of Haagen and Bruun Jørgensen, two young ex-players, opted for an offensive formation in defense. A trick that has often bothered Ikast, and it helped to unsettle them this time as well. Meanwhile, Ana Razdorov kept converting penalties for GOG, while Hørlykke fed Assink on the line with juicy balls or had a go for herself with her intimidating shots.
With 4 minutes to go, Olga Assink hit her 8th goal to reduce the Ikast lead to just two goals, 30-28. But it wasn't to be. GOG had found the net for the last time, and Daugaard and Mikkelsen, Ikast's wing aces, finished them off. 32-28 in Ikast-hallen.
It's all lined up for the marquee act with Slagelse FH - the first final rubber already taking place on Thursday in the best-of-three series. Ikast/Bording will have little time to prepare, but they will surely find a moment to rejoice after earning a renewed shot at the Champions League as a result of advancing to the Danish final.
GOG will have to contend themselves with the bronze medals - they finished the regular season one spot above Viborg who lost in the other semifinal - and with booking a place in the EHF Cup.
Player of the Match: Kristine Andersen, Ikast.
Best Ikast players: Andersen, Mikkelsen, Paunica.
Best GOG players: Hørlykke, Assink, Razdorov.
Danish Championship Semifinal, 2rd Match:
Ikast/Bording-GOG/Gudme 32-28 (19-16)
Ikast/Bording: Kristine Andersen 10, Narcisa Paunica 7, Henriette Mikkelsen 6, Grit Jurack 3, Line Daugaard and Lise Knudsen 2, Isabel Blanco and Tonje Kjærgaard 1
GOG/Gudme: Ana Razdorov 8, Olga Assink and Rikke Hørlykke 7, Monique Feijen 3, Krisztina Nagy 2, Pearl van der Vissel 1
Suspensions: Ikast 2x2, GOG 2x2
Attendance: 1,700 in Ikasthallen.
Kristine Andersen hit 10 goals as Ikast/Bording posted a 32-28 (19-16) victory over GOG/Gudme in the third and decisive tie for a place in the Danish Championship final.
An aggressive Kristine Andersen took over from Grit Jurack, this time playing a subdued role after stellar showings in the first two semfinal brawls, and put the home team in control with an early 5-2 lead. GOG/Gudme fought back to 7-all before starting to drift again.
When Kristine Andersen struck the goal to 14-9, GOG looked on its way to a thrashing. But the deadly duo of playmaker Hørlykke and line player Assink orchestrated a fight-back and closed the gap to two goals, 18-16 in Ikast's favor, before Andersen hit another to put her team three ahead at the break.
At the beginning of the second half GOG made a dreaded substitution error which lost them possession of the ball and cost them a 2 minute suspension. Just as the match was tightly balanced. Ikast took full advantage of the gaffe, and when Narcisa Paunica scored to 24-19 five minutes later, GOG had the back against the wall.
The coaching team of Haagen and Bruun Jørgensen, two young ex-players, opted for an offensive formation in defense. A trick that has often bothered Ikast, and it helped to unsettle them this time as well. Meanwhile, Ana Razdorov kept converting penalties for GOG, while Hørlykke fed Assink on the line with juicy balls or had a go for herself with her intimidating shots.
With 4 minutes to go, Olga Assink hit her 8th goal to reduce the Ikast lead to just two goals, 30-28. But it wasn't to be. GOG had found the net for the last time, and Daugaard and Mikkelsen, Ikast's wing aces, finished them off. 32-28 in Ikast-hallen.
It's all lined up for the marquee act with Slagelse FH - the first final rubber already taking place on Thursday in the best-of-three series. Ikast/Bording will have little time to prepare, but they will surely find a moment to rejoice after earning a renewed shot at the Champions League as a result of advancing to the Danish final.
GOG will have to contend themselves with the bronze medals - they finished the regular season one spot above Viborg who lost in the other semifinal - and with booking a place in the EHF Cup.
Player of the Match: Kristine Andersen, Ikast.
Best Ikast players: Andersen, Mikkelsen, Paunica.
Best GOG players: Hørlykke, Assink, Razdorov.
Danish Championship Semifinal, 2rd Match:
Ikast/Bording-GOG/Gudme 32-28 (19-16)
Ikast/Bording: Kristine Andersen 10, Narcisa Paunica 7, Henriette Mikkelsen 6, Grit Jurack 3, Line Daugaard and Lise Knudsen 2, Isabel Blanco and Tonje Kjærgaard 1
GOG/Gudme: Ana Razdorov 8, Olga Assink and Rikke Hørlykke 7, Monique Feijen 3, Krisztina Nagy 2, Pearl van der Vissel 1
Suspensions: Ikast 2x2, GOG 2x2
Attendance: 1,700 in Ikasthallen.
April 27, 2003
Dunaferr Hungarian Champions
Dunaferr SE captured the Hungarian Championship, the NB I, by taking apart Esztergom 33-22 away from home in the 6th round of the playoff. With 4 rounds remaining the team of Dunaújváros holds an unassailable 9 point lead on the rivals of Ferencvaros, who took out Cornexi Alcoa 33-28 at home on Saturday.
Dunaferr SE captured the Hungarian Championship, the NB I, by taking apart Esztergom 33-22 away from home in the 6th round of the playoff. With 4 rounds remaining the team of Dunaújváros holds an unassailable 9 point lead on the rivals of Ferencvaros, who took out Cornexi Alcoa 33-28 at home on Saturday.
April 26, 2003
Slagelse Edges Viborg in New Thriller
Slagelse FH came back from a 6 goal deficit to knock out Viborg in the second semifinal match and booked a place in the Danish Championship final. The team of Ulrik Wilbek had to swallow a bitter 29-31 (18-14) loss that had many parallels to the Champions League defeat to Valencia when another 6 goal lead was squandered at home.
A furious Wilbek let out much of his anger at the two referees, Denmark's No. 1 pair, and blamed them for favoring Slagelse at the end of the second half. But in a post-match interview he also pointed to his lack of options on the back positions where injuries forced just three players to carry most of the burden, while Anja Andersen had more options with her broader Slagelse bench.
Well into the 2nd half, an outstanding Lotte Kiærskou put her team ahead 23-18 with her 7th goal, and Viborg looked well on its way to gaining a third match in Slagelse. Especially since the threat of Camilla Andersen had been neutralized by a potent Heidi Tjugum in Viborg's goal. In the first half the quick-stepping Andersen almost singlehandedly kept Slagelse in the game when the team had been down as much as 8-14.
However, the demise of Andersen brought on the rise of Fridrikas. And ultimately the fall of Wilbek in what turned out to be his last match in charge of the most successful club in Danish women's handball.
The Austrian-Lithuanian superstar smacked in 5 fine goals at this crucial time and kept cutting down on Viborg's lead as the match grew tighter and tighter. An already strained Viborg side lost tough girl Rikke Skov in defense as she was disqualified after three 2 minute suspensions.
Heidi Astrup, once again far from impressive, converted a penalty to 27-24, and the team in the green jerseys found a pocket of air. The relief didn't last long. A superb Rikke Schmidt kept a lock on the Slagelse goal, and three quick blows in the other end tied the match at 27-all.
Two of these goals came from Stine Frank, a replacement for Mia Hundvin who sustained a head injury in the first half. Viborg never regained the lead, and a minute from time line player Mette Melgaard sealed the fate of the reigning Danish Champions by making it 28-30. A disappointed Lotte Kiærskou hit the last goal of Viborg's season, 29-31.
Anja Andersen characterized the two tense encounters with Viborg as the "real final", giving lots of praise to the opponent. In both of the thrilling dramas Viborg showed the tactical skill and the fighting spirit to constrain Slagelse's powerful offense. But in the end they lacked the stamina and inspiration to keep up with Slagelse's individualists.
Player of the Match: Lotte Kiærskou, Viborg HK.
Best Viborg players: Kiærskou, Thorsen, Tjugum.
Best Slagelse players: Fridrikas, Andersen, Frank, Schmidt.
Viborg-Slagelse 29-31 (18-14)
Viborg: Lotte Kiærskou 8, Heidi Astrup 6, Majken Larsen 4, Camilla Thorsen and Katrine Fruelund 3, Karen Brødsgaard and Natalia Deriougina 2, Christina Roslyng 1
Slagelse: Camilla Andersen 8, Ausra Fridrikas 7, Bojana Petrovic and Stine Frank 4, Stina Madsen 3, Mette Melgaard and Jeong Ho-Hong 2, Mia Hundvin 1
Suspensions:: Viborg 5x2, Slagelse 2x2
Attendance: 2,900
Slagelse FH came back from a 6 goal deficit to knock out Viborg in the second semifinal match and booked a place in the Danish Championship final. The team of Ulrik Wilbek had to swallow a bitter 29-31 (18-14) loss that had many parallels to the Champions League defeat to Valencia when another 6 goal lead was squandered at home.
A furious Wilbek let out much of his anger at the two referees, Denmark's No. 1 pair, and blamed them for favoring Slagelse at the end of the second half. But in a post-match interview he also pointed to his lack of options on the back positions where injuries forced just three players to carry most of the burden, while Anja Andersen had more options with her broader Slagelse bench.
Well into the 2nd half, an outstanding Lotte Kiærskou put her team ahead 23-18 with her 7th goal, and Viborg looked well on its way to gaining a third match in Slagelse. Especially since the threat of Camilla Andersen had been neutralized by a potent Heidi Tjugum in Viborg's goal. In the first half the quick-stepping Andersen almost singlehandedly kept Slagelse in the game when the team had been down as much as 8-14.
However, the demise of Andersen brought on the rise of Fridrikas. And ultimately the fall of Wilbek in what turned out to be his last match in charge of the most successful club in Danish women's handball.
The Austrian-Lithuanian superstar smacked in 5 fine goals at this crucial time and kept cutting down on Viborg's lead as the match grew tighter and tighter. An already strained Viborg side lost tough girl Rikke Skov in defense as she was disqualified after three 2 minute suspensions.
Heidi Astrup, once again far from impressive, converted a penalty to 27-24, and the team in the green jerseys found a pocket of air. The relief didn't last long. A superb Rikke Schmidt kept a lock on the Slagelse goal, and three quick blows in the other end tied the match at 27-all.
Two of these goals came from Stine Frank, a replacement for Mia Hundvin who sustained a head injury in the first half. Viborg never regained the lead, and a minute from time line player Mette Melgaard sealed the fate of the reigning Danish Champions by making it 28-30. A disappointed Lotte Kiærskou hit the last goal of Viborg's season, 29-31.
Anja Andersen characterized the two tense encounters with Viborg as the "real final", giving lots of praise to the opponent. In both of the thrilling dramas Viborg showed the tactical skill and the fighting spirit to constrain Slagelse's powerful offense. But in the end they lacked the stamina and inspiration to keep up with Slagelse's individualists.
Player of the Match: Lotte Kiærskou, Viborg HK.
Best Viborg players: Kiærskou, Thorsen, Tjugum.
Best Slagelse players: Fridrikas, Andersen, Frank, Schmidt.
Viborg-Slagelse 29-31 (18-14)
Viborg: Lotte Kiærskou 8, Heidi Astrup 6, Majken Larsen 4, Camilla Thorsen and Katrine Fruelund 3, Karen Brødsgaard and Natalia Deriougina 2, Christina Roslyng 1
Slagelse: Camilla Andersen 8, Ausra Fridrikas 7, Bojana Petrovic and Stine Frank 4, Stina Madsen 3, Mette Melgaard and Jeong Ho-Hong 2, Mia Hundvin 1
Suspensions:: Viborg 5x2, Slagelse 2x2
Attendance: 2,900
GOG Stuns Ikast
GOG has forced Ikast/Bording into a third playoff match on Monday after winning 29-24 (13-13) at home in Gudmehallerne on Saturday. Down 18-21 ten minutes into the second half, a frustrated GOG side looked to be out of contention for a place in the final of the Danish Championship.
But when key player Rikke Hørlykke, who otherwise had a dismal day, finally converted on her 6th shot on goal, the tide turned at a furious pace. Soon Ditte Andersen, another national player with a dubious performance in offense, also began landing the ball where it belongs. After 48 minutes of play, she tied the match at 21-21 and soon put GOG ahead 23-21.
Grit Jurack bravely fought on as the only real threat in the Ikast/Bording attack, and her solo efforts shortened GOG's lead to 24-23. But the outstanding player of the match, Krisztina Nagy, blasted GOG ahead 25-23 with her precise left hand. On only her 8th attempt, she scored her 7th goal of the match to make it an overwhelming 27-23 lead for the home team with just 4 minutes to go.
Monique Feijen, GOG's left wing, played an exuberant first half and helped close an early 2-5 gap to Ikast by tying the game at 8-all. In the dying seconds of the half, she struck again to make it 13-13. Always trying to find powerful Olga Assink on the line, GOG made numerous technical mistakes and helped Ikast to a number of counter attacks.
But when they actually finished their attacks, keeper Karin Mortensen had few answers. With only a 12 percent rate, she was replaced with Jenny Holmgren 5 minutes after the interval. This immediately seemed to work as Ikast/Bording started to open a gap. Tonje Kjærgaard on the line had so far been the most effective Ikast player, scoring 5 goals on as many tries, but Grit Jurack suddenly found the devastating form that helped her to 9 goals in the first match.
On a crisp move and a fierce shot she opened up a 3 goal lead, 18-21, for the visitors. Before Ikast/Bording totally collapsed in both offense and defense and was trampled down by a determined GOG side. Ikast/Bording will have home advantage in the decider on Monday, but coach Christian Dalmose has a lot of thinking to do. Kristine Andersen has been nothing short of disastrous since playing an excellent game in Slovenia against Krim and did not score a single goal.
GOG will be likely be hampered by the absence of keeper Gitte Sunesen, who left the court injured in the first half. This should force GOG to use untested youngster Michelle Ljungstrøm as back-up for Mette Iversen on Monday.
Player of the Match: Krisztina Nagy, GOG.
Best GOG players: Nagy, Feijen, Razdorov, Iversen.
Best Ikast players: Jurack, Mikkelsen, Kjærgaard.
Danish Championship Semifinal, 2nd Match:
GOG/Gudme-Ikast/Bording. 29-24 (13-13)
GOG/Gudme: Krisztina Nagy 7, Monique Feijen, Olga Assink and Ana Razdorov 5,
Ditte Andersen 3, Pearl van der Vissel and Rikke Hørlykke 2
Ikast/Bording: Grit Jurack 8, Tonje Kjærgaard 6, Narcisa Paunica 5, Henriette Mikkelsen 3, Line Daugaard 2
Suspensions: GOG/Gudme 1x2, Ikast 2x2
Attendance: 1.410 in Gudmehallerne
GOG has forced Ikast/Bording into a third playoff match on Monday after winning 29-24 (13-13) at home in Gudmehallerne on Saturday. Down 18-21 ten minutes into the second half, a frustrated GOG side looked to be out of contention for a place in the final of the Danish Championship.
But when key player Rikke Hørlykke, who otherwise had a dismal day, finally converted on her 6th shot on goal, the tide turned at a furious pace. Soon Ditte Andersen, another national player with a dubious performance in offense, also began landing the ball where it belongs. After 48 minutes of play, she tied the match at 21-21 and soon put GOG ahead 23-21.
Grit Jurack bravely fought on as the only real threat in the Ikast/Bording attack, and her solo efforts shortened GOG's lead to 24-23. But the outstanding player of the match, Krisztina Nagy, blasted GOG ahead 25-23 with her precise left hand. On only her 8th attempt, she scored her 7th goal of the match to make it an overwhelming 27-23 lead for the home team with just 4 minutes to go.
Monique Feijen, GOG's left wing, played an exuberant first half and helped close an early 2-5 gap to Ikast by tying the game at 8-all. In the dying seconds of the half, she struck again to make it 13-13. Always trying to find powerful Olga Assink on the line, GOG made numerous technical mistakes and helped Ikast to a number of counter attacks.
But when they actually finished their attacks, keeper Karin Mortensen had few answers. With only a 12 percent rate, she was replaced with Jenny Holmgren 5 minutes after the interval. This immediately seemed to work as Ikast/Bording started to open a gap. Tonje Kjærgaard on the line had so far been the most effective Ikast player, scoring 5 goals on as many tries, but Grit Jurack suddenly found the devastating form that helped her to 9 goals in the first match.
On a crisp move and a fierce shot she opened up a 3 goal lead, 18-21, for the visitors. Before Ikast/Bording totally collapsed in both offense and defense and was trampled down by a determined GOG side. Ikast/Bording will have home advantage in the decider on Monday, but coach Christian Dalmose has a lot of thinking to do. Kristine Andersen has been nothing short of disastrous since playing an excellent game in Slovenia against Krim and did not score a single goal.
GOG will be likely be hampered by the absence of keeper Gitte Sunesen, who left the court injured in the first half. This should force GOG to use untested youngster Michelle Ljungstrøm as back-up for Mette Iversen on Monday.
Player of the Match: Krisztina Nagy, GOG.
Best GOG players: Nagy, Feijen, Razdorov, Iversen.
Best Ikast players: Jurack, Mikkelsen, Kjærgaard.
Danish Championship Semifinal, 2nd Match:
GOG/Gudme-Ikast/Bording. 29-24 (13-13)
GOG/Gudme: Krisztina Nagy 7, Monique Feijen, Olga Assink and Ana Razdorov 5,
Ditte Andersen 3, Pearl van der Vissel and Rikke Hørlykke 2
Ikast/Bording: Grit Jurack 8, Tonje Kjærgaard 6, Narcisa Paunica 5, Henriette Mikkelsen 3, Line Daugaard 2
Suspensions: GOG/Gudme 1x2, Ikast 2x2
Attendance: 1.410 in Gudmehallerne
Skovbakken Struggling with Team Esbjerg
Team Esbjerg earned a third match in Aarhus against Skovbakken/Brabrand after defeating them a slim 26-25 at home in the contest for a berth in the Handball League. Skovbakken has prepared itself ambitiously for next season, e.g. by signing Norwegian Marianne Rokne, but a failure to overcome Division 1 side Team Esbjerg will ruin their plans.
Team Esbjerg earned a third match in Aarhus against Skovbakken/Brabrand after defeating them a slim 26-25 at home in the contest for a berth in the Handball League. Skovbakken has prepared itself ambitiously for next season, e.g. by signing Norwegian Marianne Rokne, but a failure to overcome Division 1 side Team Esbjerg will ruin their plans.
April 25, 2003
Jurack's Faux Pas
An incident at the end of Ikast vs. GOG ignited a heated debate in Denmark. Grit Jurack made a neat, little pirouette before firing a penalty shot to seal the Ikast triumph in true show style, but ended up hitting keeper Mette Iversen in the head. Iversen went down with a bang, and one of the GOG coaches, Søren Haagen, ran onto the field, grabbed Jurack and cursed at her. Truly a disgraceful act from Haagen.
The referees decided not to red-card the German - which didn't make the GOG camp any more mellow. Even though Jurack was visibly upset and clearly did not intend to hit Iversen, the referees could have decided to send her off and possibly ban her for the second match in Gudme. It's the player's responsibility not to carry out any reckless acts and endanger the health of an opponent.
Apparently, Grit Jurack lacks control of her shot when doing these pirouettes, and should at least refrain from using it if she plans to place the ball in the middle of goal in eye height. However, Mette Iversen did in fact move on the line as Jurack carried out the shot. Not a lot, but surely enough to get in the path of the ball.
On that basis, I think the referees made a wise decision. Jurack's lack of intent probably contributed to their decision. And the degree of recklessness exhibited is a matter of interpretation as well. It was unquestionably an accident. No one seriously thinks that Grit Jurack would do something like that on purpose. Especially as she's one of the most sympathetic and fairminded players in the Danish league.
But she does need to come with some new tricks and give the pirouette a rest for a while. Or at least practice it some more.
Europamester.dk has posted a frame-by-frame analysis of the sequence. Judge for yourself!
An incident at the end of Ikast vs. GOG ignited a heated debate in Denmark. Grit Jurack made a neat, little pirouette before firing a penalty shot to seal the Ikast triumph in true show style, but ended up hitting keeper Mette Iversen in the head. Iversen went down with a bang, and one of the GOG coaches, Søren Haagen, ran onto the field, grabbed Jurack and cursed at her. Truly a disgraceful act from Haagen.
The referees decided not to red-card the German - which didn't make the GOG camp any more mellow. Even though Jurack was visibly upset and clearly did not intend to hit Iversen, the referees could have decided to send her off and possibly ban her for the second match in Gudme. It's the player's responsibility not to carry out any reckless acts and endanger the health of an opponent.
Apparently, Grit Jurack lacks control of her shot when doing these pirouettes, and should at least refrain from using it if she plans to place the ball in the middle of goal in eye height. However, Mette Iversen did in fact move on the line as Jurack carried out the shot. Not a lot, but surely enough to get in the path of the ball.
On that basis, I think the referees made a wise decision. Jurack's lack of intent probably contributed to their decision. And the degree of recklessness exhibited is a matter of interpretation as well. It was unquestionably an accident. No one seriously thinks that Grit Jurack would do something like that on purpose. Especially as she's one of the most sympathetic and fairminded players in the Danish league.
But she does need to come with some new tricks and give the pirouette a rest for a while. Or at least practice it some more.
Europamester.dk has posted a frame-by-frame analysis of the sequence. Judge for yourself!
April 24, 2003
Hong Saves Slagelse
A late goal by Jeong-Ho Hong helped Slagelse FH to a 26-25 (15-15) victory in a thrillingly close encounter with Viborg HK. The South Korean broke through the Viborg defense with 15 seconds remaining and grabbed a decisive lead for Anja Andersen's side, which had Camilla Andersen suspended for the last minute and a half of this first semifinal match for the Danish Championship.
Viborg counter-attacked in the dying stages of the nail-biting show in Antvorskovhallen in Slagelse, but with just three seconds left on the clock Lotte Kiærskou's last-ditch effort was deflected by Slagelse keeper Marie Møller. And Viborg HK was denied a crucial point ahead of the second battle in Viborg on Saturday.
Slagelse, title favorites and the No. 1 team of the regular season, revealed that they are far from invincible. At 23-24, just four minutes from time, Ulrik Wilbek's team looked to have the proceedings under control, at least in terms of securing a point. But then Camilla Andersen hit her 7th goal to tie the match, and Viborg missed several chances to take the lead again.
Instead Petrovic, in what was her best move on an otherwise weak night, passed a firm Heidi Tjugum to make it 25-24 with a deceptive shot. Right wing Louise Pedersen equalized, but it wasn't enough for the girls in green.
A flaky Camilla Andersen used up a full 18 shots to score only 7 goals and attracted a silly suspension at the most crucial time of the match after obstructing the ball. Although occasionally supplemented by Lotte Kiærskou, Katrine Fruelund was the danger woman in the Viborg attack and netted 6 times. Heidi Astrup once again looked out of sorts and was no threat for Slagelse.
To deal with the Astrup problem, Wilbek made numerous changes to the Viborg formation. Both Berit Kristensen and Rikke Skov were applied in the playmaker and back positions, but only with moderate success. In fact, Rikke Skov's missed chances cost them dearly in the late part of the second half.
Ausra Fridrikas, best Slagelse player of the match despite resting an awful lot on the bench, hit 5 goals. Stina Madsen, a right-handed right wing, impressed as well, and so did Jeong-Ho Hong, but otherwise Slagelse was haunted by nervous play and technical mistakes.
But it was still enough to win, and that has to be upsetting for Ulrik Wilbek and the Viborg side ahead of Saturday's second semifinal game where they are forced to win to gain a third chance in Slagelse.
Danish Championship Semifinal, 1st Match:
Slagelse-Viborg 26-25 (15-15)
Slagelse: Camilla Andersen 7, Ausra Fridrikas 5, Bojana Petrovic 4, Jeong-Ho Hong and Stina Madsen 3, Mette Melgaard 2, Marie Høpfner and Mia Hundvin 1
Viborg: Katrine Fruelund 6, Camilla Thorsen, Lotte Kiærskou and Louise Pedersen 4, Karen Brødsgaard and Heidi Astrup 2, Majken Larsen, Berit Kristensen and Christina Roslyng 1
Suspensions: Slagelse 1x2, Viborg 2x2
Attendance: 1.500 in Antvorskovhallen, Slagelse
A late goal by Jeong-Ho Hong helped Slagelse FH to a 26-25 (15-15) victory in a thrillingly close encounter with Viborg HK. The South Korean broke through the Viborg defense with 15 seconds remaining and grabbed a decisive lead for Anja Andersen's side, which had Camilla Andersen suspended for the last minute and a half of this first semifinal match for the Danish Championship.
Viborg counter-attacked in the dying stages of the nail-biting show in Antvorskovhallen in Slagelse, but with just three seconds left on the clock Lotte Kiærskou's last-ditch effort was deflected by Slagelse keeper Marie Møller. And Viborg HK was denied a crucial point ahead of the second battle in Viborg on Saturday.
Slagelse, title favorites and the No. 1 team of the regular season, revealed that they are far from invincible. At 23-24, just four minutes from time, Ulrik Wilbek's team looked to have the proceedings under control, at least in terms of securing a point. But then Camilla Andersen hit her 7th goal to tie the match, and Viborg missed several chances to take the lead again.
Instead Petrovic, in what was her best move on an otherwise weak night, passed a firm Heidi Tjugum to make it 25-24 with a deceptive shot. Right wing Louise Pedersen equalized, but it wasn't enough for the girls in green.
A flaky Camilla Andersen used up a full 18 shots to score only 7 goals and attracted a silly suspension at the most crucial time of the match after obstructing the ball. Although occasionally supplemented by Lotte Kiærskou, Katrine Fruelund was the danger woman in the Viborg attack and netted 6 times. Heidi Astrup once again looked out of sorts and was no threat for Slagelse.
To deal with the Astrup problem, Wilbek made numerous changes to the Viborg formation. Both Berit Kristensen and Rikke Skov were applied in the playmaker and back positions, but only with moderate success. In fact, Rikke Skov's missed chances cost them dearly in the late part of the second half.
Ausra Fridrikas, best Slagelse player of the match despite resting an awful lot on the bench, hit 5 goals. Stina Madsen, a right-handed right wing, impressed as well, and so did Jeong-Ho Hong, but otherwise Slagelse was haunted by nervous play and technical mistakes.
But it was still enough to win, and that has to be upsetting for Ulrik Wilbek and the Viborg side ahead of Saturday's second semifinal game where they are forced to win to gain a third chance in Slagelse.
Danish Championship Semifinal, 1st Match:
Slagelse-Viborg 26-25 (15-15)
Slagelse: Camilla Andersen 7, Ausra Fridrikas 5, Bojana Petrovic 4, Jeong-Ho Hong and Stina Madsen 3, Mette Melgaard 2, Marie Høpfner and Mia Hundvin 1
Viborg: Katrine Fruelund 6, Camilla Thorsen, Lotte Kiærskou and Louise Pedersen 4, Karen Brødsgaard and Heidi Astrup 2, Majken Larsen, Berit Kristensen and Christina Roslyng 1
Suspensions: Slagelse 1x2, Viborg 2x2
Attendance: 1.500 in Antvorskovhallen, Slagelse
Ikast Draws First Blood
After the dual losses to Krim Ljubljana in the Champions League, Ikast/Bording bounced back with a 31-26 (14-14) win over GOG/Gudme in the first semifinal play-off match for the Danish Championship.
Grit Jurack and Narcisa Paunica shined in the Ikast attack, racking up 9 and 8 goals respectively, while always gutsy Rikke Hørlykke grabbed 7 goals for the losing side.
European all-star Karin Mortensen didn't phaze the attack of the visitors before the interval and was benched to make room for Swedish veteran Jenny Holmgren, who made a strong showing like her GOG counterpart Gitte Sunesen. However, Mortensen returned to the Ikast goal for the second half and capped a fine performance with scoring a long-distance goal, catching the GOG keeper off guard.
Ikast/Bording raced to a 20-16 lead at the beginning of the second half, prompting GOG to make changes in defense. This brought them back to 22-19, but largely thanks to the services of Narcisa Paunica Ikast expanded to 26-21 - and later a compelling 31-23. GOG's three final goals were merely academic.
GOG needs a win - goal margin is irrelevant - in the return match at home to force a third and decisive shoot-out for a place in the final. As Ikast finished the regular season in 2nd place, one notch above GOG, they will have the home advantage. But the team from Fyn needs to make quick improvements to challenge Ikast as the second half proved.
Danish Championship Semifinal, 1st Match:
Ikast/Bording-GOG/Gudme 31-26 (14-14)
Ikast: Grit Jurack 9, Narcisa Paunica 8, Tonje Kjærgaard 4, Henriette Mikkelsen 3, Kristine Andersen and Line Daugaard 2, Isabel Blanco, Sara Hansen and Karin Mortensen 1
GOG: Rikke Hørlykke 7, Monique Feijen 6, Krisztina Nagy and Ana Razdorov 4, Saskia Mulder and Winnie Mølgaard 2, Pearl van der Vissel 1
Suspensions: Ikast 2x2, GOG 4x2
Attendance: 1.705 in Ikast-hallen
After the dual losses to Krim Ljubljana in the Champions League, Ikast/Bording bounced back with a 31-26 (14-14) win over GOG/Gudme in the first semifinal play-off match for the Danish Championship.
Grit Jurack and Narcisa Paunica shined in the Ikast attack, racking up 9 and 8 goals respectively, while always gutsy Rikke Hørlykke grabbed 7 goals for the losing side.
European all-star Karin Mortensen didn't phaze the attack of the visitors before the interval and was benched to make room for Swedish veteran Jenny Holmgren, who made a strong showing like her GOG counterpart Gitte Sunesen. However, Mortensen returned to the Ikast goal for the second half and capped a fine performance with scoring a long-distance goal, catching the GOG keeper off guard.
Ikast/Bording raced to a 20-16 lead at the beginning of the second half, prompting GOG to make changes in defense. This brought them back to 22-19, but largely thanks to the services of Narcisa Paunica Ikast expanded to 26-21 - and later a compelling 31-23. GOG's three final goals were merely academic.
GOG needs a win - goal margin is irrelevant - in the return match at home to force a third and decisive shoot-out for a place in the final. As Ikast finished the regular season in 2nd place, one notch above GOG, they will have the home advantage. But the team from Fyn needs to make quick improvements to challenge Ikast as the second half proved.
Danish Championship Semifinal, 1st Match:
Ikast/Bording-GOG/Gudme 31-26 (14-14)
Ikast: Grit Jurack 9, Narcisa Paunica 8, Tonje Kjærgaard 4, Henriette Mikkelsen 3, Kristine Andersen and Line Daugaard 2, Isabel Blanco, Sara Hansen and Karin Mortensen 1
GOG: Rikke Hørlykke 7, Monique Feijen 6, Krisztina Nagy and Ana Razdorov 4, Saskia Mulder and Winnie Mølgaard 2, Pearl van der Vissel 1
Suspensions: Ikast 2x2, GOG 4x2
Attendance: 1.705 in Ikast-hallen
Transfer Gossip
As we approach the end of the season, the transfer talks become ever louder. Once again, the latest hot rumor involves Slagelse. Anja Andersen's club appears to have lost the battle for Milica Danilovic, who seems to be going to Valencia, but according to a Danish newspaper they are trying to attract Slovenian star Anja Freser of Krim Ljubljana, a Champions League finalist.
Valentina Tarculovska has been linked with Slagelse for quite some time, but nothing definite has emerged. The future of Mia Hundvin is also hard to predict. But if she leaves Slagelse, the favorites for the Danish title will most certainly be desperate to pick up a strong left wing to replace her.
Christina Roslyng, whose foot injury wasn't as bad as feared, is most likely heading for Kolding IF. And so is another Viborg wing, Louise Pedersen, who is replaced with GOG's Saskia Mulder.
In definite news, Fox Team Nord loses Marianne Økland to Norwegian Sola HK, where she will serve as club manager. Fox Team Nord completely thrashed Division 1 side Team Midtsjælland in the first qualification game to avoid relegation. 31-12 is an indicator that Fox will not have any trouble staying in the league.
As we approach the end of the season, the transfer talks become ever louder. Once again, the latest hot rumor involves Slagelse. Anja Andersen's club appears to have lost the battle for Milica Danilovic, who seems to be going to Valencia, but according to a Danish newspaper they are trying to attract Slovenian star Anja Freser of Krim Ljubljana, a Champions League finalist.
Valentina Tarculovska has been linked with Slagelse for quite some time, but nothing definite has emerged. The future of Mia Hundvin is also hard to predict. But if she leaves Slagelse, the favorites for the Danish title will most certainly be desperate to pick up a strong left wing to replace her.
Christina Roslyng, whose foot injury wasn't as bad as feared, is most likely heading for Kolding IF. And so is another Viborg wing, Louise Pedersen, who is replaced with GOG's Saskia Mulder.
In definite news, Fox Team Nord loses Marianne Økland to Norwegian Sola HK, where she will serve as club manager. Fox Team Nord completely thrashed Division 1 side Team Midtsjælland in the first qualification game to avoid relegation. 31-12 is an indicator that Fox will not have any trouble staying in the league.
Report: Skovbakken/Brabrand Becomes SC Aarhus
Skovbakken/Brabrand took care of Team Esbjerg 29-21 (12-11) at home in Aarhus in the first match of a best-of-three qualification play-off. The club looks set to prolonging its stay in the Danish league ahead of the second match in Esbjerg on Saturday.
Brabrand steps out of the team companionship after the season, but Skovbakken plans a business partnership with the football club FC Aarhus. As a result, it is expected that the club will change its name to SC Aarhus.
The name has not yet been made official, but someone blundered by using it in a pamphlet for a newly-founded handball academy for young talents in Aarhus. Skovbakken's incoming coach, Kristjan Halldorsson of Iceland, will be teaching at the academy.
Skovbakken/Brabrand took care of Team Esbjerg 29-21 (12-11) at home in Aarhus in the first match of a best-of-three qualification play-off. The club looks set to prolonging its stay in the Danish league ahead of the second match in Esbjerg on Saturday.
Brabrand steps out of the team companionship after the season, but Skovbakken plans a business partnership with the football club FC Aarhus. As a result, it is expected that the club will change its name to SC Aarhus.
The name has not yet been made official, but someone blundered by using it in a pamphlet for a newly-founded handball academy for young talents in Aarhus. Skovbakken's incoming coach, Kristjan Halldorsson of Iceland, will be teaching at the academy.
April 23, 2003
Vigdis Stays Norwegian
Larvik HK has secured the much sought after Vigdis Hårsaker of Byåsen. The 21-year-old lefty, who finished the season as top scorer of the Norwegian league, was chased by a number of Danish clubs as well as Gunnar Prokop's Hypo.
According to Adresseavisen, which broke the story, it weighed heavily on the youngster's mind that she would be joining several teammates from the national side in Larvik. And staying in Norway enables her to take preliminary courses ahead of an education as physiotherapist.
Larvik HK has secured the much sought after Vigdis Hårsaker of Byåsen. The 21-year-old lefty, who finished the season as top scorer of the Norwegian league, was chased by a number of Danish clubs as well as Gunnar Prokop's Hypo.
According to Adresseavisen, which broke the story, it weighed heavily on the youngster's mind that she would be joining several teammates from the national side in Larvik. And staying in Norway enables her to take preliminary courses ahead of an education as physiotherapist.
Dunaferr Downs Ferencvaros
With a resounding 31-24 (15-14) home victory against Herz Budapest, Dunaferr SE is virtually assured of the Hungarian Championship with a full 5 rounds of the play-off remaining. The dismantling of their closest rivals sees them go 9 points clear, and the EHF Cup finalists can now wrap up the title on Sunday in an away game with Esztergom.
Bernadett Ferling, who missed the European Championship in Denmark last year because of an abdominal injury, put 11 goals past the Ferencvaros keepers. Farkas listed her usual 10 goals for the visitors, while FC Copenhagen's new signing Eszter Siti scored 7. But the reigning champions were hampered by 14 penalty minutes and couldn't halt the Dunaferr onslaught in the second half.
Although dropping a point against Györ through a 21-21 draw three days ago, Dunaferr has been immaculate in the Hungarian league. Their only loss of the season came in the first away game in September when they were narrowly defeated by Vác.
With a resounding 31-24 (15-14) home victory against Herz Budapest, Dunaferr SE is virtually assured of the Hungarian Championship with a full 5 rounds of the play-off remaining. The dismantling of their closest rivals sees them go 9 points clear, and the EHF Cup finalists can now wrap up the title on Sunday in an away game with Esztergom.
Bernadett Ferling, who missed the European Championship in Denmark last year because of an abdominal injury, put 11 goals past the Ferencvaros keepers. Farkas listed her usual 10 goals for the visitors, while FC Copenhagen's new signing Eszter Siti scored 7. But the reigning champions were hampered by 14 penalty minutes and couldn't halt the Dunaferr onslaught in the second half.
Although dropping a point against Györ through a 21-21 draw three days ago, Dunaferr has been immaculate in the Hungarian league. Their only loss of the season came in the first away game in September when they were narrowly defeated by Vác.
April 18, 2003
Cumplova Czech Mates Career
Bayer Leverkusen's left wing Petra Cumplova has decided to leave Germany and return to her native Czech Republic after this season. The splendid 29-year-old technician, who already holds a law degree, wants to pursue a civil career.
During the European Championship in Denmark, the top scorer of the Czech team made it no secret that she wouldn't mind hooking up with a Danish club after her stay in Germany. Unfortunately, no clubs in Denmark seem to have returned her interest.
Bayer Leverkusen's left wing Petra Cumplova has decided to leave Germany and return to her native Czech Republic after this season. The splendid 29-year-old technician, who already holds a law degree, wants to pursue a civil career.
During the European Championship in Denmark, the top scorer of the Czech team made it no secret that she wouldn't mind hooking up with a Danish club after her stay in Germany. Unfortunately, no clubs in Denmark seem to have returned her interest.
April 16, 2003
Confusion Surrounding Danilovic
Yesterday Handball-World reported that Lützellinden ace Milica Danilovic is almost certain to sign up with Valencia. Although unconfirmed, this story is even featured on Danilovic' own web site. However, a Danish newspaper today reports that Slagelse FH has already signed the right back as a replacement for the shoulder-injured Korean Jeong-Ho Hong who may be returning to her home country.
The 28-year-old Danilovic has previously played for Krim and Hypo. The Yugoslav has scored an average of 10 goals per game in her last few seaons with crise-stricken TV Lützellinden.
Yesterday Handball-World reported that Lützellinden ace Milica Danilovic is almost certain to sign up with Valencia. Although unconfirmed, this story is even featured on Danilovic' own web site. However, a Danish newspaper today reports that Slagelse FH has already signed the right back as a replacement for the shoulder-injured Korean Jeong-Ho Hong who may be returning to her home country.
The 28-year-old Danilovic has previously played for Krim and Hypo. The Yugoslav has scored an average of 10 goals per game in her last few seaons with crise-stricken TV Lützellinden.
April 14, 2003
Slagelse Confiscates Cano From Valencia
According to Danish TV 2, Slagelse FH has further reinforced its squad for the next season by signing Frenchwoman Stephanie Cano from El Osito Valencia on a one-year contract. The Valencia right wing, who assisted in knocking out Viborg HK from the Champions League, visited Slagelse today and observed a training session. Slagelse FH has confirmed the story.
Slagelse's left wing, though, is still an open question. Valentina Tarculovska appears to be replacing Mia Hundvin, whose new club is still unknown, but nothing definite has been ascertained.
According to Danish TV 2, Slagelse FH has further reinforced its squad for the next season by signing Frenchwoman Stephanie Cano from El Osito Valencia on a one-year contract. The Valencia right wing, who assisted in knocking out Viborg HK from the Champions League, visited Slagelse today and observed a training session. Slagelse FH has confirmed the story.
Slagelse's left wing, though, is still an open question. Valentina Tarculovska appears to be replacing Mia Hundvin, whose new club is still unknown, but nothing definite has been ascertained.
Trine Jensen: Worst Fears Confirmed
Ikast/Bording's Trine Jensen is sidelined for at least six months after tearing her front ligament in the left knee during the match against Krim on Saturday. Sadly, this type of serious knee injury has become a specialty of Ikast, with Grit Jurack, Kjersti Grini, Jenny Holmgren, and Anja Nielsen as previous casualties.
Trine Jensen, who serves at both the right back and wing positions for Ikast, is now unlikely to be part of the Danish national team at the World Championship in Croatia at the end of 2003.
Ikast/Bording's Trine Jensen is sidelined for at least six months after tearing her front ligament in the left knee during the match against Krim on Saturday. Sadly, this type of serious knee injury has become a specialty of Ikast, with Grit Jurack, Kjersti Grini, Jenny Holmgren, and Anja Nielsen as previous casualties.
Trine Jensen, who serves at both the right back and wing positions for Ikast, is now unlikely to be part of the Danish national team at the World Championship in Croatia at the end of 2003.
Galleries from Weekend Matches
FTC Handball has posted a nice gallery of the return match between Cornexi Alcoa and Dunaferr SE in the EHF Cup. Danish handball fans will surely recognize Rita Borok, the former Viborg player, and Beata Siti, ex-Ikast girl. There's also an excellent picture of the legendary Bojana Radulovics in the crowd. She is always a pleasure to watch - even without a handball!
It seems that Dunaferr received a total of 16 penalty minutes during the match - so it doesn't surprise me that Zsuzsanna Palffy appears to climb out to the audience after being red-carded. Some great jubilation pictures as well - the Dunaferr players did the classic stomach glider.
Europamester.dk has also posted a new gallery from an Ikast fan who visited Aarhus Arena for the return meet with Krim. They use frames, so I'm linking to a sub-page. They have also posted a number of television grabs.
Apparently, this Ikast fan managed to trade some lame, yellow t-shirt for an original Krim Eta Kotex jersey! Very crafty - I'm sure he must be from Jutland. Unfortunately, he ruined his shirt by allowing some "unknown" players called Derepasko and Dinu to sign their name on it.
FTC Handball has posted a nice gallery of the return match between Cornexi Alcoa and Dunaferr SE in the EHF Cup. Danish handball fans will surely recognize Rita Borok, the former Viborg player, and Beata Siti, ex-Ikast girl. There's also an excellent picture of the legendary Bojana Radulovics in the crowd. She is always a pleasure to watch - even without a handball!
It seems that Dunaferr received a total of 16 penalty minutes during the match - so it doesn't surprise me that Zsuzsanna Palffy appears to climb out to the audience after being red-carded. Some great jubilation pictures as well - the Dunaferr players did the classic stomach glider.
Europamester.dk has also posted a new gallery from an Ikast fan who visited Aarhus Arena for the return meet with Krim. They use frames, so I'm linking to a sub-page. They have also posted a number of television grabs.
Apparently, this Ikast fan managed to trade some lame, yellow t-shirt for an original Krim Eta Kotex jersey! Very crafty - I'm sure he must be from Jutland. Unfortunately, he ruined his shirt by allowing some "unknown" players called Derepasko and Dinu to sign their name on it.
Frankfurt Secures Szrnka
Frankfurter HC has signed one of Hungary's most promising players, the 21-year-old Hortenzia Szrnka, on a two-year contract with option for an additional season. The young Dunaferr player was part of the Hungarian national team that took part in the European Championship in December. Szrnka mostly filled out the job of relieving for Agnes Farkas when the veteran needed a break, but showed remarkable firing power from her back position.
The traffic is going in the opposite direction for Bundesliga colleagues TV Lützellinden. Because of financial problems, the once successful club is losing a number of profiles. Lenka Cerna, the veteran keeper of the Czech Republic, is returning to Metropole Metz after two years in Germany, according to Handball-World.com.
Milica Danilovic has already proclaimed that she is leaving the club as well, most likely for Valencia in Spain or a Danish club. Lützellinden will also miss its line player Frauke Barnickel, who is going back to her home town in the north of Germany to study.
Frankfurter HC has signed one of Hungary's most promising players, the 21-year-old Hortenzia Szrnka, on a two-year contract with option for an additional season. The young Dunaferr player was part of the Hungarian national team that took part in the European Championship in December. Szrnka mostly filled out the job of relieving for Agnes Farkas when the veteran needed a break, but showed remarkable firing power from her back position.
The traffic is going in the opposite direction for Bundesliga colleagues TV Lützellinden. Because of financial problems, the once successful club is losing a number of profiles. Lenka Cerna, the veteran keeper of the Czech Republic, is returning to Metropole Metz after two years in Germany, according to Handball-World.com.
Milica Danilovic has already proclaimed that she is leaving the club as well, most likely for Valencia in Spain or a Danish club. Lützellinden will also miss its line player Frauke Barnickel, who is going back to her home town in the north of Germany to study.
Roslyng Ruled Out
Christina Roslyng sustained a foot injury in the last second of the match against Valencia and won't be able to participate in Viborg HK's semifinals with Slagelse for the Danish Championship. The left wing has already announced that she is leaving Viborg after the season for another Danish club which is still unknown.
Viborg HK is also handicapped by the absence of Natasja Burgers and the long-term injury of French international Leila Lejeune.
Update: Christina Roslyng recovered quickly and will be part of Viborg's team in the first play-off semifinal match with Slagelse FH on Thursday, April 24.
Christina Roslyng sustained a foot injury in the last second of the match against Valencia and won't be able to participate in Viborg HK's semifinals with Slagelse for the Danish Championship. The left wing has already announced that she is leaving Viborg after the season for another Danish club which is still unknown.
Viborg HK is also handicapped by the absence of Natasja Burgers and the long-term injury of French international Leila Lejeune.
Update: Christina Roslyng recovered quickly and will be part of Viborg's team in the first play-off semifinal match with Slagelse FH on Thursday, April 24.
Dunaferr Ready For Slagelse
This year's edition of the EHF Cup final will feature two of the strongest teams in Europe at the moment. Dunaferr SE lost the second game away to Cornexi Alcoa 22-23, but had a 33-28 home win in hand from the first meeting between the two Hungarian semifinalists and thus advances to a final with Slagelse FH.
Cornexi, a prominent side featuring players like Helga Nemeth, Anita Kulcsar, Rita Deli, and Beata Siti, led 13-8 after the first half. But just as in the first match, Dunaferr took control after the break and cut down the distance to just one goal. Anita Kulcsar, the match top scorer, netted 7 times in front of a 1,500 strong crowd, while Bernadett Ferling, Ivett Nagy, and Hortenzia Szrnka each hit 4 goals for Dunaferr.
Dunaferr was denied a place in the Champions League after losing to Ferrobus Mislata with a slim 51-52 in the final qualification round. They joined the EHF Cup in the 3rd round when they took care of the Swiss girls from Spono Nottwil handily. They had more difficulty with San Sebastian in the next round, but did come through with 2 goals more. AKVA Volgograd was also a difficult hurdle in the quarterfinal, but their strong defense held tight and they once again advanced with 2 goals.
Dunaferr SE has been flawless in the Hungarian league. They are currently leading the play-off tournament with a massive points gap to Ferencvaros, whom they have beaten twice this season.
Slagelse's march towards the final almost came to a halt in the 3rd round against the compatriots of GOG/Gudme, but they held through with a 2-goal advantage. They haven't been under pressure since then and must be considered favorites for the final. But Dunaferr is one team that is certain to present them with a stiff challenge.
In the Cup Winner's Cup, Spartak Kiev, the conquerers of Kolding IF, comes up against E.S.B.F. Besancon in the final. The French side secured a commanding 30-18 victory at home and only lost 22-23 in the second game in Hungary against Györi Graboplast ETO - a finalist last year in the EHF Cup. 8 goals from Györ's Anita Görbicz were not enough to unsettle Besancon in the return match.
This year's edition of the EHF Cup final will feature two of the strongest teams in Europe at the moment. Dunaferr SE lost the second game away to Cornexi Alcoa 22-23, but had a 33-28 home win in hand from the first meeting between the two Hungarian semifinalists and thus advances to a final with Slagelse FH.
Cornexi, a prominent side featuring players like Helga Nemeth, Anita Kulcsar, Rita Deli, and Beata Siti, led 13-8 after the first half. But just as in the first match, Dunaferr took control after the break and cut down the distance to just one goal. Anita Kulcsar, the match top scorer, netted 7 times in front of a 1,500 strong crowd, while Bernadett Ferling, Ivett Nagy, and Hortenzia Szrnka each hit 4 goals for Dunaferr.
Dunaferr was denied a place in the Champions League after losing to Ferrobus Mislata with a slim 51-52 in the final qualification round. They joined the EHF Cup in the 3rd round when they took care of the Swiss girls from Spono Nottwil handily. They had more difficulty with San Sebastian in the next round, but did come through with 2 goals more. AKVA Volgograd was also a difficult hurdle in the quarterfinal, but their strong defense held tight and they once again advanced with 2 goals.
Dunaferr SE has been flawless in the Hungarian league. They are currently leading the play-off tournament with a massive points gap to Ferencvaros, whom they have beaten twice this season.
Slagelse's march towards the final almost came to a halt in the 3rd round against the compatriots of GOG/Gudme, but they held through with a 2-goal advantage. They haven't been under pressure since then and must be considered favorites for the final. But Dunaferr is one team that is certain to present them with a stiff challenge.
In the Cup Winner's Cup, Spartak Kiev, the conquerers of Kolding IF, comes up against E.S.B.F. Besancon in the final. The French side secured a commanding 30-18 victory at home and only lost 22-23 in the second game in Hungary against Györi Graboplast ETO - a finalist last year in the EHF Cup. 8 goals from Györ's Anita Görbicz were not enough to unsettle Besancon in the return match.
April 13, 2003
Dortmund Takes Out Trier
Borussia Dortmund held off the compratiots of DJK/MJC Trier by a one-goal margin to clinch a place in the final of the Challenge Cup. Dortmund lost the return match in Trier 27-33 (13-19), but did enough to protect their 29-22 win from the first match and progressed with 56-55 on aggregate. 15 minutes before the end, Borussia were down 18-27, but managed to recuperate in time to deny the top team of the German Bundesliga. Baumbach (9) of Trier and Seiffert (9) of Borussia were the top scorers of the match.
Borussia Dortmund meets the Romanian team HC Selmont Baia Mare in the final. They took out Nata AZS-AWFiS Gdansk after winning 27-18 at home in the decider and losing 19-24 in Poland.
Borussia Dortmund held off the compratiots of DJK/MJC Trier by a one-goal margin to clinch a place in the final of the Challenge Cup. Dortmund lost the return match in Trier 27-33 (13-19), but did enough to protect their 29-22 win from the first match and progressed with 56-55 on aggregate. 15 minutes before the end, Borussia were down 18-27, but managed to recuperate in time to deny the top team of the German Bundesliga. Baumbach (9) of Trier and Seiffert (9) of Borussia were the top scorers of the match.
Borussia Dortmund meets the Romanian team HC Selmont Baia Mare in the final. They took out Nata AZS-AWFiS Gdansk after winning 27-18 at home in the decider and losing 19-24 in Poland.
Valencia Wrecks Wilbek's Dream
A remarkable second half showing by El Osito Valencia extinguished coach Ulrik Wilbek's dream of finally winning the Champions League with Viborg HK. The Spanish side under the guidance of Christina Mayo booked a place in the final against Krim Eta Kotex with a 26-23 (9-13) victory in Viborg Stadionhal.
After the teams played to a lively 34-34 draw in Valencia last weekend, 2,900 spectators witnessed two much better prepared defenses in the second encounter. Viborg HK made most of the chaotic first half, which was plagued by many technical mishaps as well as numerous 2-minute penalties, and steered to a 13-9 half time lead. Largely thanks to the services of Lotte Kiærskou, Viborg top scorer with 8 goals.
Viborg HK extended their lead to 5 goals in the first minute of the second half, but then it went downhill fast. Katrine Fruelund, who was the only real Viborg threat in attack in the second half, scored to 17-13. But a determined Valencia team started to show its qualities, both in attack and defense, and turned the deficit around to a sensational 20-18 lead.
The Viborg players looked increasingly shaken, and time and time again they were incapable of penetrating the aggressive Valencia defense. Meanwhile, the mighty Medved and the experienced line player Gomez came into play for Valencia.
A late charge by Viborg tied the match at 20-all, a result which would have granted the Danes a place in the final. But 19-year-old Marta Mangue scored two splendid solo goals, putting her team ahead 22-20.
And Viborg's resistance was broken when Tatjana Medved hammered home the goal to 25-23 with just over a minute to go. Marta Mangue sealed the victory with a last-second goal on a counter attack. El Osito L'Eliana Valencia advances to the final with a 60-57 aggregrate win. And Viborg HK head coach Ulrik Wilbek, who is stepping down from the post to take over the men's team of Viborg, must come to terms with the fact that he is still without a Champions League victory on his otherwise blooming resume.
Heidi Astrup, who is leaving for Japan after this season, looked to be more preoccupied with her travel plans than the match. Her performance was so weak that Wilbek felt forced to bench her for a large portion of the proceedings, and as a sign of desperation he even fielded an untested 19-year-old replacement, Berit Kristensen.
Montserrat Puche did not impress as much as in the first match, but instead Cristina Gomez, now a 35-year-old veteran, again showed her undeniable value for the Spaniards. Left wing Stephanie Cano was likewise an important part of the line-up. With 5 excellent goals the Frenchwoman clearly emphasized why she was picked for the all-star team at the European Championship last year.
Tatjana Medved seemed absent in the first half. But after several pauses on the bench, she showed her power and skill when the match was decided and totalled 8 goals.
A remarkable second half showing by El Osito Valencia extinguished coach Ulrik Wilbek's dream of finally winning the Champions League with Viborg HK. The Spanish side under the guidance of Christina Mayo booked a place in the final against Krim Eta Kotex with a 26-23 (9-13) victory in Viborg Stadionhal.
After the teams played to a lively 34-34 draw in Valencia last weekend, 2,900 spectators witnessed two much better prepared defenses in the second encounter. Viborg HK made most of the chaotic first half, which was plagued by many technical mishaps as well as numerous 2-minute penalties, and steered to a 13-9 half time lead. Largely thanks to the services of Lotte Kiærskou, Viborg top scorer with 8 goals.
Viborg HK extended their lead to 5 goals in the first minute of the second half, but then it went downhill fast. Katrine Fruelund, who was the only real Viborg threat in attack in the second half, scored to 17-13. But a determined Valencia team started to show its qualities, both in attack and defense, and turned the deficit around to a sensational 20-18 lead.
The Viborg players looked increasingly shaken, and time and time again they were incapable of penetrating the aggressive Valencia defense. Meanwhile, the mighty Medved and the experienced line player Gomez came into play for Valencia.
A late charge by Viborg tied the match at 20-all, a result which would have granted the Danes a place in the final. But 19-year-old Marta Mangue scored two splendid solo goals, putting her team ahead 22-20.
And Viborg's resistance was broken when Tatjana Medved hammered home the goal to 25-23 with just over a minute to go. Marta Mangue sealed the victory with a last-second goal on a counter attack. El Osito L'Eliana Valencia advances to the final with a 60-57 aggregrate win. And Viborg HK head coach Ulrik Wilbek, who is stepping down from the post to take over the men's team of Viborg, must come to terms with the fact that he is still without a Champions League victory on his otherwise blooming resume.
Heidi Astrup, who is leaving for Japan after this season, looked to be more preoccupied with her travel plans than the match. Her performance was so weak that Wilbek felt forced to bench her for a large portion of the proceedings, and as a sign of desperation he even fielded an untested 19-year-old replacement, Berit Kristensen.
Montserrat Puche did not impress as much as in the first match, but instead Cristina Gomez, now a 35-year-old veteran, again showed her undeniable value for the Spaniards. Left wing Stephanie Cano was likewise an important part of the line-up. With 5 excellent goals the Frenchwoman clearly emphasized why she was picked for the all-star team at the European Championship last year.
Tatjana Medved seemed absent in the first half. But after several pauses on the bench, she showed her power and skill when the match was decided and totalled 8 goals.
April 12, 2003
Superb Krim Demolishes Ikast
Krim Eta Kotex of Slovenia coasted into the Champions League final by virtue of a 27-21 (15-10) away triumph against Ikast/Bording in Aarhus Arena. Sitting on a 5 goal advantage from the first match, the 2001 Champions raced to a 7-3 lead in the beginning of the first half. A double pack from Deja Doler and fine shotmaking from Freser and Derepasko put the Slovenians ahead and virtually decided the tie.
With Luminita Dinu as an almost impregnable anchor in goal, the rock-solid Krim defense proved too strong for an erratic Ikast side. Tellingly, Grit Jurack on right back didn't score her first goal until the middle of the second half after missing her six previous attempts, yet still managed to be Ikast's leading scorer with a total of 5, tied with wing Henriette Mikkelsen.
Derepasko was intrumental from her left back position and whipped 7 goals past Karin Mortensen, who was clearly outshined by her Romanian colleague in the other goal. Ikast/Bording was down 5 goals at half time, a total of 10 on aggregrate, but still fought on valiantly in front of the 4,700 crowd. They cut the gap to 21-23 with 10 minutes to go, but Krim simply tightened its grip once again and easily drew clear.
Sealing a highly convincing 27-21 win at full time, and a 60-49 demolition job in total, Krim Eta Kotex of Ljubljana must be considered outright favorites to win the 2003 Champion League trophy, regardless of their opponents in the final.
In post-match interviews, both coach Dalmose and captain Tonje Kjærgaard openly conceded that they had lost to a much stronger team. Especially the Slovenian defense turned out to be a nightmare for Ikast in general and playmaker Kristine Andersen in particular.
Only adding to the Ikast disaster was Trine Jensen's solo accident towards the end of the first half when she badly twitched her knee. The seriousness of her injury will first be fully explored on Monday, but it seems highly improbable that she will be ready for the semifinal matches with GOG/Gudme for the Danish Championship.
Krim Eta Kotex of Slovenia coasted into the Champions League final by virtue of a 27-21 (15-10) away triumph against Ikast/Bording in Aarhus Arena. Sitting on a 5 goal advantage from the first match, the 2001 Champions raced to a 7-3 lead in the beginning of the first half. A double pack from Deja Doler and fine shotmaking from Freser and Derepasko put the Slovenians ahead and virtually decided the tie.
With Luminita Dinu as an almost impregnable anchor in goal, the rock-solid Krim defense proved too strong for an erratic Ikast side. Tellingly, Grit Jurack on right back didn't score her first goal until the middle of the second half after missing her six previous attempts, yet still managed to be Ikast's leading scorer with a total of 5, tied with wing Henriette Mikkelsen.
Derepasko was intrumental from her left back position and whipped 7 goals past Karin Mortensen, who was clearly outshined by her Romanian colleague in the other goal. Ikast/Bording was down 5 goals at half time, a total of 10 on aggregrate, but still fought on valiantly in front of the 4,700 crowd. They cut the gap to 21-23 with 10 minutes to go, but Krim simply tightened its grip once again and easily drew clear.
Sealing a highly convincing 27-21 win at full time, and a 60-49 demolition job in total, Krim Eta Kotex of Ljubljana must be considered outright favorites to win the 2003 Champion League trophy, regardless of their opponents in the final.
In post-match interviews, both coach Dalmose and captain Tonje Kjærgaard openly conceded that they had lost to a much stronger team. Especially the Slovenian defense turned out to be a nightmare for Ikast in general and playmaker Kristine Andersen in particular.
Only adding to the Ikast disaster was Trine Jensen's solo accident towards the end of the first half when she badly twitched her knee. The seriousness of her injury will first be fully explored on Monday, but it seems highly improbable that she will be ready for the semifinal matches with GOG/Gudme for the Danish Championship.
Kiev Ousts Kolding
Spartak Kiev of the Ukraine avenged Slagelse's conquest of Motor Zaporoshe by knocking out Kolding IF in the semifinals of Cup Winner's Cup. The return match in Denmark finished with a 24-24 (11-10) draw. Having won the first encounter 27-24, Spartak moves in with 51-48 on aggregrate.
Kolding failed to capitalize on an unusally large home crowd of 2,600 and made a number of primitive technical mistakes in attack. The Danish team led 15-12 shortly after the break, but soon found themselves behind 17-18. They went up 22-20 within the last 4 minutes, but missed a penalty to go three clear. Several important goals by center back and national player Oksana Sadaka in the last minutes kept Spartak in control and the Ukrainians escaped unhurt. Sadaka's shirt number is unusal: 76, her birth year.
Spartak Kiev, the most decorated club in Europe during the Soviet era, fully deserved the place in the final. Their key player Marina Verhelyuk was benched with an injury, and they even fielded a 39-year-old assistant coach to make up for the holes in the line-up. Spartak faces either Besancon of France or Györ of Hungary in the match-up to decide the trophy.
Spartak Kiev of the Ukraine avenged Slagelse's conquest of Motor Zaporoshe by knocking out Kolding IF in the semifinals of Cup Winner's Cup. The return match in Denmark finished with a 24-24 (11-10) draw. Having won the first encounter 27-24, Spartak moves in with 51-48 on aggregrate.
Kolding failed to capitalize on an unusally large home crowd of 2,600 and made a number of primitive technical mistakes in attack. The Danish team led 15-12 shortly after the break, but soon found themselves behind 17-18. They went up 22-20 within the last 4 minutes, but missed a penalty to go three clear. Several important goals by center back and national player Oksana Sadaka in the last minutes kept Spartak in control and the Ukrainians escaped unhurt. Sadaka's shirt number is unusal: 76, her birth year.
Spartak Kiev, the most decorated club in Europe during the Soviet era, fully deserved the place in the final. Their key player Marina Verhelyuk was benched with an injury, and they even fielded a 39-year-old assistant coach to make up for the holes in the line-up. Spartak faces either Besancon of France or Györ of Hungary in the match-up to decide the trophy.
Slouchy Slagelse in European Final
Slagelse FH progressed to the final of the EHF Cup despite losing 23-28 (12-13) to Motor Zaporoshe in the return match in Ukraine. In the second half, the Ukrainians amassed a 10 goal lead, but Slagelse's sizable 21 goal cushion from the first match was never in real danger. Bojana Petrovic piled up 7 goals for the Danish team.
The Ukrainians regained some of their reputation after the gruelling beating they endured in Farum Arena last weekend, and Slagelse might be looking more vulnerable ahead of their semifinal rendezvous with Viborg for the Danish Championship and the EHF Cup final against either Dunaferr SE or Cornexi Alcoa.
Slagelse FH progressed to the final of the EHF Cup despite losing 23-28 (12-13) to Motor Zaporoshe in the return match in Ukraine. In the second half, the Ukrainians amassed a 10 goal lead, but Slagelse's sizable 21 goal cushion from the first match was never in real danger. Bojana Petrovic piled up 7 goals for the Danish team.
The Ukrainians regained some of their reputation after the gruelling beating they endured in Farum Arena last weekend, and Slagelse might be looking more vulnerable ahead of their semifinal rendezvous with Viborg for the Danish Championship and the EHF Cup final against either Dunaferr SE or Cornexi Alcoa.
April 10, 2003
Ikast Protest Denied
The European Handball Federation turned down Ikast/Bording's protest without taking into consideration the tv pictures documenting that the Krim goal to 18-13 was allowed after the buzzer went off. The referees signed the score sheet, and therefore the final result is indeed final.
Natasja Burgers, Viborg HK's right back, is forced to skip the remaining matches of the season because of recurring problems with her heel. Her speedy legs will be missed against Valencia.
The European Handball Federation turned down Ikast/Bording's protest without taking into consideration the tv pictures documenting that the Krim goal to 18-13 was allowed after the buzzer went off. The referees signed the score sheet, and therefore the final result is indeed final.
Natasja Burgers, Viborg HK's right back, is forced to skip the remaining matches of the season because of recurring problems with her heel. Her speedy legs will be missed against Valencia.
Applicants for Euro 2006
The following 8 countries have requested application documents regarding the hosting of the women's European Championsip 2006, which takes place from December 7-17 of that year:
Bulgaria, Czech Republic, Denmark, France, Macedonia, Slovakia, Sweden, and Turkey.
At the face of it, the Czechs, Danes, French, Macedonians, and Swedes look like the top candidates. The decision will be taken at the EHF Congress in Cyprus in May 2004. This means that the results of the World Championship in Croatia in 2003 will have significance for some of these countries. The EHF will obviously prefer to choose a nation with a competitive home team.
Denmark looks more interested in getting a Championship for the male sex right now. The Danish Federation is trying get the men's Euro 2006 as well. I guess they are going for the women if this fails, and maybe they are trying to exert extra pressure on the EHF by showing a lot of commitment. As Denmark already hosted the Euros in 2002 and 1996, it wouldn't seem logical picking them again. It would make more sense to try and attract a World Championship.
The next European Championship takes place in Hungary in December 2004.
The following 8 countries have requested application documents regarding the hosting of the women's European Championsip 2006, which takes place from December 7-17 of that year:
Bulgaria, Czech Republic, Denmark, France, Macedonia, Slovakia, Sweden, and Turkey.
At the face of it, the Czechs, Danes, French, Macedonians, and Swedes look like the top candidates. The decision will be taken at the EHF Congress in Cyprus in May 2004. This means that the results of the World Championship in Croatia in 2003 will have significance for some of these countries. The EHF will obviously prefer to choose a nation with a competitive home team.
Denmark looks more interested in getting a Championship for the male sex right now. The Danish Federation is trying get the men's Euro 2006 as well. I guess they are going for the women if this fails, and maybe they are trying to exert extra pressure on the EHF by showing a lot of commitment. As Denmark already hosted the Euros in 2002 and 1996, it wouldn't seem logical picking them again. It would make more sense to try and attract a World Championship.
The next European Championship takes place in Hungary in December 2004.
And What About Farkas?
When Danish television station DR reported FCK's contract with Eszter Siti, they also brought up a name very familiar to handball fans across Europe. The name of Agnes Farkas. FCK Handball is still looking to sign further players, and the DR journalist asked FCK chairman, Flemming Østergaard, whether Farkas could possibly be one of those.
He gave a reluctant, neutral answer, but made it no secret that she is a very interesting player. FCK has previously promised that they would be getting a really big name to the club. Eszter Siti would of course qualify as such, but I still have the impression that the club has something up its sleeve. However, I'm not at all certain Farkas would be the one.
I doubt she would want to leave Ferencvaros at a vulnerable time - when they are saying goodbye to Siti. And I think Ferencvaros would do everything to make her stay. She has become synonymous with the club. But I suppose much of it comes down to finances.
Strangely, this rumor circulated about the same time as it was falsely reported that FCK's football club had sold one of its defenders to Inter Milan.
When Danish television station DR reported FCK's contract with Eszter Siti, they also brought up a name very familiar to handball fans across Europe. The name of Agnes Farkas. FCK Handball is still looking to sign further players, and the DR journalist asked FCK chairman, Flemming Østergaard, whether Farkas could possibly be one of those.
He gave a reluctant, neutral answer, but made it no secret that she is a very interesting player. FCK has previously promised that they would be getting a really big name to the club. Eszter Siti would of course qualify as such, but I still have the impression that the club has something up its sleeve. However, I'm not at all certain Farkas would be the one.
I doubt she would want to leave Ferencvaros at a vulnerable time - when they are saying goodbye to Siti. And I think Ferencvaros would do everything to make her stay. She has become synonymous with the club. But I suppose much of it comes down to finances.
Strangely, this rumor circulated about the same time as it was falsely reported that FCK's football club had sold one of its defenders to Inter Milan.
Comment Away!
As you might have noticed I have added a comments feature at the bottom of each entry. Don't know if it will be used, but now you at least have the option if you want to get something off your chest. Feel free to correct any wrong information, or add something that might be of interest to the readers.
Or just write whatever you feel like. Good or bad.
As you might have noticed I have added a comments feature at the bottom of each entry. Don't know if it will be used, but now you at least have the option if you want to get something off your chest. Feel free to correct any wrong information, or add something that might be of interest to the readers.
Or just write whatever you feel like. Good or bad.
April 9, 2003
Ikast in Diplomatic Row
Ikast/Bording has been trying to reduce the 5-goal gap to Krim Eta Kotex before the return match has even begun. In an appeal to the EHF, Ikast has maintained that Krim Eta Kotex mistakenly had a goal allowed after the buzzer went off at the end of the first half.
Tv pictures seem to document their claim, but whether the EHF will disavow the two German referees and take away a Krim goal is still unknown - and probably unlikely.
300 tickets are still available for Ikast/Bording's highly anticipated brawl with the Slovenians on Saturday. 4,200 tickets have so far been sold for the match in Aarhus Arena.
Europamester.dk, a leading Danish handball web site, has published some pictures taken by an Ikast fan on the trip to Slovenia that you might want to check out.
Ikast/Bording has been trying to reduce the 5-goal gap to Krim Eta Kotex before the return match has even begun. In an appeal to the EHF, Ikast has maintained that Krim Eta Kotex mistakenly had a goal allowed after the buzzer went off at the end of the first half.
Tv pictures seem to document their claim, but whether the EHF will disavow the two German referees and take away a Krim goal is still unknown - and probably unlikely.
300 tickets are still available for Ikast/Bording's highly anticipated brawl with the Slovenians on Saturday. 4,200 tickets have so far been sold for the match in Aarhus Arena.
Europamester.dk, a leading Danish handball web site, has published some pictures taken by an Ikast fan on the trip to Slovenia that you might want to check out.
FC Copenhagen Signs Siti
FC Copenhagen Handball has announced the signing of Hungarian playmaker Eszter Siti on a 3-year contract. The skillful Ferencvaros player is designated to be the new focal point of the Copenhagen team which includes Euro 2002 winners Mette Vestergaard Larsen and Camilla Thomsen.
The 25-year-old national player, whose older sister Beata had a spell with Ikast/Bording, has appeared in the Hungarian shirt 45 times. This season, she has scored more than 100 goals for Herz-FTC Budapest in league play.
FCK has also collected 21-year-old right wing Lene Tobiasen in Slagelse on a one-year deal. She joins previous signings Gitte W. Nielsen, also a Slagelse performer, and Matilda Boson, a Swedish national player. In addition, FCK is expecting to buy a couple of other players to further strenghten their bid next season.
FC Copenhagen Handball has announced the signing of Hungarian playmaker Eszter Siti on a 3-year contract. The skillful Ferencvaros player is designated to be the new focal point of the Copenhagen team which includes Euro 2002 winners Mette Vestergaard Larsen and Camilla Thomsen.
The 25-year-old national player, whose older sister Beata had a spell with Ikast/Bording, has appeared in the Hungarian shirt 45 times. This season, she has scored more than 100 goals for Herz-FTC Budapest in league play.
FCK has also collected 21-year-old right wing Lene Tobiasen in Slagelse on a one-year deal. She joins previous signings Gitte W. Nielsen, also a Slagelse performer, and Matilda Boson, a Swedish national player. In addition, FCK is expecting to buy a couple of other players to further strenghten their bid next season.
April 8, 2003
Report: Viborg Ace Stays in Denmark
According to Danish TV2, Russian Natalia Deriouguina has surprisingly decided to extend her stay in Danish handball. Ambitious up-and-comer HS Nord is rumored to have taken over the strong, agile line player, who was expected to return to Russia after the season. In fact, Viborg HK already drafted GOG's Olga Assink as a powerful replacement. HS Nord, an Aalborg club, recently fetched Swedish right wing Erika Nilsson in Skövde HF.
Meanwhile, the hunt for Norwegian Vigdis Hårsaker is still on, but it appears that the field of candidate clubs has been reduced to just four: Ikast/Bording, GOG, Nordstrand, and - likely favorites - Larvik HK. Slagelse and Skovbakken are no longer in the running.
Lützellinden captain and top scorer Milica Danilovic, who is recuperating from a torn knee ligament at the moment, is also reported to be headed for Denmark next season. Despite interest from HC Leipzig, she has been more keen to find a Danish club.
According to Danish TV2, Russian Natalia Deriouguina has surprisingly decided to extend her stay in Danish handball. Ambitious up-and-comer HS Nord is rumored to have taken over the strong, agile line player, who was expected to return to Russia after the season. In fact, Viborg HK already drafted GOG's Olga Assink as a powerful replacement. HS Nord, an Aalborg club, recently fetched Swedish right wing Erika Nilsson in Skövde HF.
Meanwhile, the hunt for Norwegian Vigdis Hårsaker is still on, but it appears that the field of candidate clubs has been reduced to just four: Ikast/Bording, GOG, Nordstrand, and - likely favorites - Larvik HK. Slagelse and Skovbakken are no longer in the running.
Lützellinden captain and top scorer Milica Danilovic, who is recuperating from a torn knee ligament at the moment, is also reported to be headed for Denmark next season. Despite interest from HC Leipzig, she has been more keen to find a Danish club.
April 6, 2003
Viborg Draws in Spain
A breakthrough goal in the last minute from Dutch international Natasja Burgers salvaged a 34-34 draw for Viborg HK on Spanish soil in the first Champions League semifinal match against El Osito L'Eliana Valencia.
In the first half, Natalia Deriouguina rampaged the Spanish defense in one of her best ever performances in the Viborg shirt and steered the Danes to a 17-16 lead. Valencia closed down the loopholes after the interval, but handed plenty of space to a spunky Christina Roslyng on the left wing.
Montserrat Puche Diaz came alight as the match progressed, and only her mesmorizing display helped the Spaniards avoid a threatening defeat in front of their usual sparse home crowd. The sizable pack of Viborg fans created the bulk of the atmosphere in the modest arena, and gave the VHK players a taste of the support they will enjoy next weekend in Viborg for the return match.
While Ikast/Bording will have to be firing on all cylinders to overpower Krim Eta Kotex in the other semifinal, Viborg must be regarded as outright favorites to reach the Champions League final for a third time.
On Saturday, Kolding IF lost 24-27 (10-13) away to Spartak Kiev in the EHF Cup. Dangerous Maryna Verhelyuk netted 7 goals for the Ukrainian club, which was once the dominant force in European women's handball.
A breakthrough goal in the last minute from Dutch international Natasja Burgers salvaged a 34-34 draw for Viborg HK on Spanish soil in the first Champions League semifinal match against El Osito L'Eliana Valencia.
In the first half, Natalia Deriouguina rampaged the Spanish defense in one of her best ever performances in the Viborg shirt and steered the Danes to a 17-16 lead. Valencia closed down the loopholes after the interval, but handed plenty of space to a spunky Christina Roslyng on the left wing.
Montserrat Puche Diaz came alight as the match progressed, and only her mesmorizing display helped the Spaniards avoid a threatening defeat in front of their usual sparse home crowd. The sizable pack of Viborg fans created the bulk of the atmosphere in the modest arena, and gave the VHK players a taste of the support they will enjoy next weekend in Viborg for the return match.
While Ikast/Bording will have to be firing on all cylinders to overpower Krim Eta Kotex in the other semifinal, Viborg must be regarded as outright favorites to reach the Champions League final for a third time.
On Saturday, Kolding IF lost 24-27 (10-13) away to Spartak Kiev in the EHF Cup. Dangerous Maryna Verhelyuk netted 7 goals for the Ukrainian club, which was once the dominant force in European women's handball.
April 5, 2003
Slagelse Breaks Down Motor
The team of Anja Andersen, Slagelse FH, dealt Motor Zaporoshe of the Ukraine a blow that they are not likely to forget anytime soon. 20-7 at half time, and 35-14 at full time are unprecedented figures in an EHF Cup semifinal.
A lively crowd in Farum Arena cheered the collective of Andersen, Petrovic, Fridrikas, and Hundvin on as they put one goal after another past the desolate Motor keepers to make the return match a mere formality.
The team of Anja Andersen, Slagelse FH, dealt Motor Zaporoshe of the Ukraine a blow that they are not likely to forget anytime soon. 20-7 at half time, and 35-14 at full time are unprecedented figures in an EHF Cup semifinal.
A lively crowd in Farum Arena cheered the collective of Andersen, Petrovic, Fridrikas, and Hundvin on as they put one goal after another past the desolate Motor keepers to make the return match a mere formality.
Krim Withstands Ikast Surge
Krim Eta Kotex of Ljubljana defeated Ikast/Bording 33-28 in the first Champions League semifinal match at home. A dominant Derepasko with 11 goals caused havoc in the strained Ikast defense, which also had trouble containing Deja Doler on the line.
After the match balanced at 8-all in the middle of the first half, the Slovenians accelerated to a 6 goal lead. By half time only an inspired Narcisa Paunica held Ikast within 5 goals, 18-13 in Krim's favor. But Ikast, led by Kristine Andersen (8 goals) appeared to be fighting back in the second half and cut the Krim advantage down to 3 goals a few minutes from time.
But an expulsion of Isabel Blanco cost them dearly as the Ljubljana side hit 2 crucial goals as the final buzzer approached. Setting up a tightly balanced second match in Aarhus next weekend.
Krim Eta Kotex of Ljubljana defeated Ikast/Bording 33-28 in the first Champions League semifinal match at home. A dominant Derepasko with 11 goals caused havoc in the strained Ikast defense, which also had trouble containing Deja Doler on the line.
After the match balanced at 8-all in the middle of the first half, the Slovenians accelerated to a 6 goal lead. By half time only an inspired Narcisa Paunica held Ikast within 5 goals, 18-13 in Krim's favor. But Ikast, led by Kristine Andersen (8 goals) appeared to be fighting back in the second half and cut the Krim advantage down to 3 goals a few minutes from time.
But an expulsion of Isabel Blanco cost them dearly as the Ljubljana side hit 2 crucial goals as the final buzzer approached. Setting up a tightly balanced second match in Aarhus next weekend.
April 4, 2003
Terrific Tonje Stays with Ikast
Ahead of her team's crucial Champions League clash with Krim, captain Tonje Kjærgaard has declared that she will play yet another season for Ikast/Bording. The announcement comes amidst speculation that the former national player, who voluntarily has opted out of playing for Denmark in recent years, might be considering retirement.
The 28-year-old line player has already spent 11 seasons with Ikast and played almost 400 matches in the yellow shirt. Tonje Kjærgaard is widely regarded as Denmark's finest line player. Ever.
Ahead of her team's crucial Champions League clash with Krim, captain Tonje Kjærgaard has declared that she will play yet another season for Ikast/Bording. The announcement comes amidst speculation that the former national player, who voluntarily has opted out of playing for Denmark in recent years, might be considering retirement.
The 28-year-old line player has already spent 11 seasons with Ikast and played almost 400 matches in the yellow shirt. Tonje Kjærgaard is widely regarded as Denmark's finest line player. Ever.
Moreau Switches to Skovbakken
French right back Stephanie Moreau moves from Randers to Århus to continue her career in the Danish league with Skovbakken. The club's new coach Kristjan Halldorsson has already attracted the signatures of Tertnes' diamond Marianne Rokne and keeper Heidi Halvorsen of NTG/Stabæk.
Previously, Skovbakken kept veteran Maja Grønbek and solid line player Karina Bjørn in its roster - as well as the quickstepping Transel sisters. The team still needs to face Team Esbjerg in best-of-three play-off to maintain their stay in the league.
French right back Stephanie Moreau moves from Randers to Århus to continue her career in the Danish league with Skovbakken. The club's new coach Kristjan Halldorsson has already attracted the signatures of Tertnes' diamond Marianne Rokne and keeper Heidi Halvorsen of NTG/Stabæk.
Previously, Skovbakken kept veteran Maja Grønbek and solid line player Karina Bjørn in its roster - as well as the quickstepping Transel sisters. The team still needs to face Team Esbjerg in best-of-three play-off to maintain their stay in the league.
April 3, 2003
Cup Action: GOG Grills Greve
In the 6th round of the Danish Cup, GOG taught relegated Division 1 club Greve IF a resounding lesson by defeating them 45-15 away from home. Unfortunately, Hungarian right back Krizstina Nagy sustained an injury during the match after twitching her foot. The seriousness of the injury will be known on Monday.
Meanwhile, the play-off semifinalists from Fyn announced a 2-year renewal of their contract with 18-year-old Pearl van der Vissel, who has become a steady feature of the side.
FCK Handball filed a routine 37-14 win against Lyngby HK in what is still early stages of the Cup tournament.
In the 6th round of the Danish Cup, GOG taught relegated Division 1 club Greve IF a resounding lesson by defeating them 45-15 away from home. Unfortunately, Hungarian right back Krizstina Nagy sustained an injury during the match after twitching her foot. The seriousness of the injury will be known on Monday.
Meanwhile, the play-off semifinalists from Fyn announced a 2-year renewal of their contract with 18-year-old Pearl van der Vissel, who has become a steady feature of the side.
FCK Handball filed a routine 37-14 win against Lyngby HK in what is still early stages of the Cup tournament.
April 2, 2003
Bundesliga Team Withdraws
Financial woes have forced SG Hessen Hersfeld to retract its team from the German Bundesliga with instant notice. With only five rounds of the league remaining, all of their match results have been annulled and removed from the table. They will be directly relegated, and the players will likely scramble to secure contracts with other clubs. Their most distinct profile, Mandy Kerkossa, is part of Germany's national B squad.
The club, which already declared itself bankrupt in February, has struggled to survive for some time and failed to attract enough sponsor support to justify continuing. Their withdrawal also dooms tail end Teutonia Riemke to premature relegation.
However, it doesn't impact the points stand among the top teams, although it does change the goal scoring balance in favor of Buxtehuder SV.
On Wednesday, the front runners from Trier barely scraped past underdogs Minden/Minderheide 28-26 to maintain their lead at the top. With a record 2,100 in attendance FHC Frankfurt nailed Bayer Leverkusen to the ground with 32-19, thus drawing level on points with 3rd-placed Buxtehude.
Financial woes have forced SG Hessen Hersfeld to retract its team from the German Bundesliga with instant notice. With only five rounds of the league remaining, all of their match results have been annulled and removed from the table. They will be directly relegated, and the players will likely scramble to secure contracts with other clubs. Their most distinct profile, Mandy Kerkossa, is part of Germany's national B squad.
The club, which already declared itself bankrupt in February, has struggled to survive for some time and failed to attract enough sponsor support to justify continuing. Their withdrawal also dooms tail end Teutonia Riemke to premature relegation.
However, it doesn't impact the points stand among the top teams, although it does change the goal scoring balance in favor of Buxtehuder SV.
On Wednesday, the front runners from Trier barely scraped past underdogs Minden/Minderheide 28-26 to maintain their lead at the top. With a record 2,100 in attendance FHC Frankfurt nailed Bayer Leverkusen to the ground with 32-19, thus drawing level on points with 3rd-placed Buxtehude.
50 in a Row for Larvik
In the concluding league round Larvik once again plowed through Nordstrand, downing the Oslo side 37-26 (14-12) and reaching a milestone of 50 league wins in a row. In their home arena of Bergslihallen, coach Gjekstad's female fighting squad can now brag of an undefeated streak of 48 matches. On average, Larvik won its 2002/03 league matches with 16 goals.
Nordstrand finished the season a clear second and heads for Champions League qualification after the summer, while Våg Vipers was uncontested in third place. In a head-to-head battle for fourth place, Tertnes put away Byåsen 26-20.
However, that didn't prevent right back Vigdis Hårsaker of Byåsen, who has recently turned down a lucrative offer from Hypo Niederösterreich, from claiming top scorer status in the league. No fewer than 8 Scandinavian clubs are still in the chase for this proficient lefty.
Lunner, Gjerpen, and last-place occupiers Bækkelagets SK will have to play their matches in Division 1 next season. A deplorable demise for the once powerful BSK.
In the concluding league round Larvik once again plowed through Nordstrand, downing the Oslo side 37-26 (14-12) and reaching a milestone of 50 league wins in a row. In their home arena of Bergslihallen, coach Gjekstad's female fighting squad can now brag of an undefeated streak of 48 matches. On average, Larvik won its 2002/03 league matches with 16 goals.
Nordstrand finished the season a clear second and heads for Champions League qualification after the summer, while Våg Vipers was uncontested in third place. In a head-to-head battle for fourth place, Tertnes put away Byåsen 26-20.
However, that didn't prevent right back Vigdis Hårsaker of Byåsen, who has recently turned down a lucrative offer from Hypo Niederösterreich, from claiming top scorer status in the league. No fewer than 8 Scandinavian clubs are still in the chase for this proficient lefty.
Lunner, Gjerpen, and last-place occupiers Bækkelagets SK will have to play their matches in Division 1 next season. A deplorable demise for the once powerful BSK.
April 1, 2003
Hundvin as April Fool
Some mischievous souls from Larvik HK duped quite a few Scandinavian media outlets by an April Fools story involving a Mia Hundvin transfer to Larvik HK. It was immediately swallowed by the Norwegian news agency and made it to various web pages, including those of the largest tabloid in Norway, Verdens Gang.
You can hardly blame them, though, as rumors of such a move by the flamboyant left wing have circulated for some time. It seems that the Larvik pranksters have misunderstood the nature of April Fools stories. First of all, they are supposed to be at least somewhat amusing. Secondly, they should be just enough removed from the realistic for the smart readers to figure it out by themselves.
Larvik did provide some fictitious comments from Marit Breivik in an additional story that should have set off alarms, but the main story didn't seem that farfetched.
In real news, Tonje Larsen of Larvik was named Norwegian player of the season in the national league, Gildeserien, for the second year running. Katrine Lunde from Våg Vipers, who was voted keeper of the season, finished in second place.
Some mischievous souls from Larvik HK duped quite a few Scandinavian media outlets by an April Fools story involving a Mia Hundvin transfer to Larvik HK. It was immediately swallowed by the Norwegian news agency and made it to various web pages, including those of the largest tabloid in Norway, Verdens Gang.
You can hardly blame them, though, as rumors of such a move by the flamboyant left wing have circulated for some time. It seems that the Larvik pranksters have misunderstood the nature of April Fools stories. First of all, they are supposed to be at least somewhat amusing. Secondly, they should be just enough removed from the realistic for the smart readers to figure it out by themselves.
Larvik did provide some fictitious comments from Marit Breivik in an additional story that should have set off alarms, but the main story didn't seem that farfetched.
In real news, Tonje Larsen of Larvik was named Norwegian player of the season in the national league, Gildeserien, for the second year running. Katrine Lunde from Våg Vipers, who was voted keeper of the season, finished in second place.
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