May 30, 2003
Hypo in Hungarian League
The Hungarian Handball Federation has accepted the participation of Austrian Champion Hypo Niederoesterreich in the national league of Hungary for the season of 2003/2004.
The Hungarian Handball Federation has accepted the participation of Austrian Champion Hypo Niederoesterreich in the national league of Hungary for the season of 2003/2004.
Helga Nemeth Headed For Ferencvaros
According to FTC Handball Helga Nemeth is moving from Cornexi Alcoa to Herz Budapest. The 29-year-old right back has played more than 120 national matches for Hungary. Nemeth has previously appeared in the shirts of Podravka and Dunaferr.
According to FTC Handball Helga Nemeth is moving from Cornexi Alcoa to Herz Budapest. The 29-year-old right back has played more than 120 national matches for Hungary. Nemeth has previously appeared in the shirts of Podravka and Dunaferr.
May 25, 2003
Logvin Lethal in Swedish Rout
Tanja Logvin struck 15 times as Austria delivered a 40-34 knock-out blow to Sweden in the first leg of the qualification play-off for the World Championship in Croatia.
Despite the support of 3,000 people in Stockholm and the absence of Ausra Fridrikas, Sweden couldn't keep up with the attacking force of the Hypo-dominated national team of Austria as they charged to a 24-13 lead at half time. 12 minutes from time, Austria was ahead with a crushing 37-24, but Sweden fought back to reduce the gap to 6 goals.
Asa Eriksson converted 8 times for the home team which will have a very difficult task at hand on Friday in Vienna. Austria also took care of Sweden easily at the European Championship last year.
The Czech Republic contiuned their progress by handing the Netherlands a 23-16 defeat at home, while Poland gained a 5 goal lead on Spain ahead of the return match on the Iberian peninsula. 23-18 was the final score. Even more surprising was Slovakia's 33-28 victory over Yugoslavia (now Serbia and Montenegro).
Likewise, Lithuania stunned the Ukraine with a 28-23 win at home. Turkey had less success than in the Eurovision Song Contest and had to concede a 29-38 defeat to Romania.
As expected, Hungary crushed Bosnia-Herzegovina 44-22. Germany also look on their way to Croatia in December after winning 29-24 in Bulgaria. Belarus and Slovenia played to a draw, 26-26, in Minsk. Lots of excitement in store for the return matches in the weekend.
Tanja Logvin struck 15 times as Austria delivered a 40-34 knock-out blow to Sweden in the first leg of the qualification play-off for the World Championship in Croatia.
Despite the support of 3,000 people in Stockholm and the absence of Ausra Fridrikas, Sweden couldn't keep up with the attacking force of the Hypo-dominated national team of Austria as they charged to a 24-13 lead at half time. 12 minutes from time, Austria was ahead with a crushing 37-24, but Sweden fought back to reduce the gap to 6 goals.
Asa Eriksson converted 8 times for the home team which will have a very difficult task at hand on Friday in Vienna. Austria also took care of Sweden easily at the European Championship last year.
The Czech Republic contiuned their progress by handing the Netherlands a 23-16 defeat at home, while Poland gained a 5 goal lead on Spain ahead of the return match on the Iberian peninsula. 23-18 was the final score. Even more surprising was Slovakia's 33-28 victory over Yugoslavia (now Serbia and Montenegro).
Likewise, Lithuania stunned the Ukraine with a 28-23 win at home. Turkey had less success than in the Eurovision Song Contest and had to concede a 29-38 defeat to Romania.
As expected, Hungary crushed Bosnia-Herzegovina 44-22. Germany also look on their way to Croatia in December after winning 29-24 in Bulgaria. Belarus and Slovenia played to a draw, 26-26, in Minsk. Lots of excitement in store for the return matches in the weekend.
May 23, 2003
Skovbakken Name Change: SK Aarhus
The now dissolved club companionship of Skovbakken/Brabrand has announced its new name for the upcoming season: Sportsklub Aarhus - or SK Aarhus.
The now dissolved club companionship of Skovbakken/Brabrand has announced its new name for the upcoming season: Sportsklub Aarhus - or SK Aarhus.
5 New Slagelse Signings
The rumors proved true as Anja Andersen publicized the names of 5 players that will be joining the Danish Champions for next season. Anja Freser, newly-crowned Champions League winner from Krim Ljubljana, will strengthen Slagelse on the right back position. Valentina Tarculovska, the Macedonian Hypo-star, replaces Mia Hundvin who is joining up-and-coming Aalborg DH. As previously announced, Stephanie Cano, Valencia's right wing, will also be joining the team.
In addition, Anne Loft, a young player from Skovbakken, and Stinne Bossen, returning to the club after a year in Spain with Vicar Goya Almeria, will be part of the Slagelse squad. Jeong-Ho Hong will undergo shoulder surgery in South Korea, but is surprisingly expected to return to the club despite speculation that she might be planning to quit handball.
The rumors proved true as Anja Andersen publicized the names of 5 players that will be joining the Danish Champions for next season. Anja Freser, newly-crowned Champions League winner from Krim Ljubljana, will strengthen Slagelse on the right back position. Valentina Tarculovska, the Macedonian Hypo-star, replaces Mia Hundvin who is joining up-and-coming Aalborg DH. As previously announced, Stephanie Cano, Valencia's right wing, will also be joining the team.
In addition, Anne Loft, a young player from Skovbakken, and Stinne Bossen, returning to the club after a year in Spain with Vicar Goya Almeria, will be part of the Slagelse squad. Jeong-Ho Hong will undergo shoulder surgery in South Korea, but is surprisingly expected to return to the club despite speculation that she might be planning to quit handball.
May 18, 2003
Nicolas Shines as Besancon Triumphs
Keeper Valerie Nicolas was instrumental as ESBF Besancon out-defended Spartak Kiev to grab the Cup Winner's Cup. After losing 27-30 in the Ukraine, the French side had the support of 4,200 spectators when they bounced back at home to win 20-15 (12-7) in the decider.
Keeper Valerie Nicolas was instrumental as ESBF Besancon out-defended Spartak Kiev to grab the Cup Winner's Cup. After losing 27-30 in the Ukraine, the French side had the support of 4,200 spectators when they bounced back at home to win 20-15 (12-7) in the decider.
Dortmund Hauls in Challenge Cup
Borussia Dortmund grabbed the club's first ever European title after escaping Romania with a 6 goal loss to HC Selmont Baia Mare, 21-27 (8-13), in the Challenge Cup. The Germans barely held onto their 8 goal cushion from the first match under very hostile conditions.
According to Handball-world.com, bottles were thrown on the floor from rowdy members of the vibrant 2,000 strong home crowd, and the Romanian team were awarded no fewer than 14 of a total of 17 penalty throws. Michaela Seiffert, once again the dominant player, hit 10(2) goals for Borussia Dortmund. Buican scored 8(4) times for Selmont.
Borussia Dortmund grabbed the club's first ever European title after escaping Romania with a 6 goal loss to HC Selmont Baia Mare, 21-27 (8-13), in the Challenge Cup. The Germans barely held onto their 8 goal cushion from the first match under very hostile conditions.
According to Handball-world.com, bottles were thrown on the floor from rowdy members of the vibrant 2,000 strong home crowd, and the Romanian team were awarded no fewer than 14 of a total of 17 penalty throws. Michaela Seiffert, once again the dominant player, hit 10(2) goals for Borussia Dortmund. Buican scored 8(4) times for Selmont.
Champions of Europe: Krim Ljubljana
A mesmorizing performance at home in Slovenia proved once and for all that Krim Eta Kotex of Ljubljana is the strongest team in Europe. A commanding 36-28 (18-12) conquest of Valencia in the second tie gave the team of Tone Tiselj a 63-58 aggregate win and earned the club its second Champions League trophy.
A mesmorizing performance at home in Slovenia proved once and for all that Krim Eta Kotex of Ljubljana is the strongest team in Europe. A commanding 36-28 (18-12) conquest of Valencia in the second tie gave the team of Tone Tiselj a 63-58 aggregate win and earned the club its second Champions League trophy.
Slagelse Captures EHF Cup
Slagelse FH completed a magic triple of titles by thwarting Dunaferr in the second leg of the EHF Cup final, winning 27-19 (12-11) in Farum Arena and 49-46 on aggregate. The stated objective for Anja Andersen ahead of the season was winning the Danish Cup, the Danish Championship, and the EHF Cup.
Slagelse FH fulfilled all expectations despite difficulties on the way. After the first half on Saturday, Slagelse did not look like a winner. Squandering 3-0 and 10-6 leads, the Danish champions again had difficulty penetrating the Hungarian defense and only scored 12 goals before the interval. Gabrielle Gaspar, Dunaferr's defensive ace, and world class keeper Katalin Palinger proved to be a frustrating hurdles to get past.
But Dunaferr had at least as many troubles with Slagelse's surprisingly aggressive defensive formation, leading to numerous technical mishaps. Bernadett Ferling was presented with a much more challenging task than in the first leg. Anja Andersen had clearly given special directives to deal with the key player in the Dunaferr attack, and Ferling only managed two regular goals throughout the match - in addition to 4 penalties.
The second half started according to plan for the 1999 Champions League winners, after 8 minutes Dunaferr only trailed with one goal, 13-14, and still had a 4 goal lead on aggregate. But then just about everything went wrong. After a modest first half, Rikke Schmidt grabbed the spotlight with a string of fine saves as the Hungarian attack completele disintegrated. And in the Slagelse attack, Bojana Petrovic had another superb performance in store for the closing match of the season.
Aided by 2,600 spectators in Farum Arena, Slagelse jumped from to 22-14 in 13 minutes and looked to have closed out the match. But Dunaferr had not given up hope and dragged themselves back to 22-17. But it was all in vain as Slagelse regained control. And even a horrible playing Ausra Fridrikas found the net after one of her worst ever matches.
Two highly intense finals, though marred by numerous technical mistakes from both sides. It was more a display of determined defensive work than sparkling attacks. Bojana Petrovic was perhaps the difference between the two teams. She was consistently able to score goals, a rare feat in these clashes, on the outstanding Katalin Palinger. Camilla Andersen never found her rhythm, and uncharacteristically missed several penalties. Of her 7 goals in the second match, 5 came from the 7-meter line.
Bernadett Ferling played a splendid first match, but took a dip like the rest of the team in Denmark. Hortenzia Szrnka, the new Frankfurt player, and Ausra Fridrikas both missed an obscure number of shots. On the line, Beata Bohus was the only real threat in the second final. Ivett Nagy, considered one of Europe's most talented wings, never had much to work with and played only a minior, while her colleague Palffy recorded a fine match in Dunaujvaros.
Slagelse unfortunately lost Jeong-Ho Hong, the South Korean Olympic gold medalist from 1992, with a shoulder injury in what was probably her last match on European soil before she returns home to Korea. And that highlighted one of their weaknesses, the lack of proficient lefties. Stephanie Cano and, perhaps, Anja Freser are anticipated to cure that problem for next season.
Player of the Match: Bojana Petrovic, Slagelse
Best of Slagelse: Petrovic, Schmidt, Melgaard
Best of Dunaferr: Palinger, Bohus, Cracana
EHC Cup final, 2nd Match:
Slagelse FH - Dunaferr SE 27-19 (12-11)
Slagelse Schmid, Frank, Fridrikas (3), C. Andersen (7/5), Helgaard (4), Petrovic (8/2), Hundvin (2), Moller, Madsen (2), Jeong Ho Hong (1)
Dunaferr SE: Palinger, Palffy (2), Pigniczki (3), Gaspar (2), Bohus (4), Ferling (6/4), Nagy (1), Cracana, Borok (2), Turtoczki, Oblisz, Bulath
Attendance 2,600 in Farum Arena
Referees: Methe/Methe, Germany
Suspensions: 7x2, 7x2
Slagelse FH completed a magic triple of titles by thwarting Dunaferr in the second leg of the EHF Cup final, winning 27-19 (12-11) in Farum Arena and 49-46 on aggregate. The stated objective for Anja Andersen ahead of the season was winning the Danish Cup, the Danish Championship, and the EHF Cup.
Slagelse FH fulfilled all expectations despite difficulties on the way. After the first half on Saturday, Slagelse did not look like a winner. Squandering 3-0 and 10-6 leads, the Danish champions again had difficulty penetrating the Hungarian defense and only scored 12 goals before the interval. Gabrielle Gaspar, Dunaferr's defensive ace, and world class keeper Katalin Palinger proved to be a frustrating hurdles to get past.
But Dunaferr had at least as many troubles with Slagelse's surprisingly aggressive defensive formation, leading to numerous technical mishaps. Bernadett Ferling was presented with a much more challenging task than in the first leg. Anja Andersen had clearly given special directives to deal with the key player in the Dunaferr attack, and Ferling only managed two regular goals throughout the match - in addition to 4 penalties.
The second half started according to plan for the 1999 Champions League winners, after 8 minutes Dunaferr only trailed with one goal, 13-14, and still had a 4 goal lead on aggregate. But then just about everything went wrong. After a modest first half, Rikke Schmidt grabbed the spotlight with a string of fine saves as the Hungarian attack completele disintegrated. And in the Slagelse attack, Bojana Petrovic had another superb performance in store for the closing match of the season.
Aided by 2,600 spectators in Farum Arena, Slagelse jumped from to 22-14 in 13 minutes and looked to have closed out the match. But Dunaferr had not given up hope and dragged themselves back to 22-17. But it was all in vain as Slagelse regained control. And even a horrible playing Ausra Fridrikas found the net after one of her worst ever matches.
Two highly intense finals, though marred by numerous technical mistakes from both sides. It was more a display of determined defensive work than sparkling attacks. Bojana Petrovic was perhaps the difference between the two teams. She was consistently able to score goals, a rare feat in these clashes, on the outstanding Katalin Palinger. Camilla Andersen never found her rhythm, and uncharacteristically missed several penalties. Of her 7 goals in the second match, 5 came from the 7-meter line.
Bernadett Ferling played a splendid first match, but took a dip like the rest of the team in Denmark. Hortenzia Szrnka, the new Frankfurt player, and Ausra Fridrikas both missed an obscure number of shots. On the line, Beata Bohus was the only real threat in the second final. Ivett Nagy, considered one of Europe's most talented wings, never had much to work with and played only a minior, while her colleague Palffy recorded a fine match in Dunaujvaros.
Slagelse unfortunately lost Jeong-Ho Hong, the South Korean Olympic gold medalist from 1992, with a shoulder injury in what was probably her last match on European soil before she returns home to Korea. And that highlighted one of their weaknesses, the lack of proficient lefties. Stephanie Cano and, perhaps, Anja Freser are anticipated to cure that problem for next season.
Player of the Match: Bojana Petrovic, Slagelse
Best of Slagelse: Petrovic, Schmidt, Melgaard
Best of Dunaferr: Palinger, Bohus, Cracana
EHC Cup final, 2nd Match:
Slagelse FH - Dunaferr SE 27-19 (12-11)
Slagelse Schmid, Frank, Fridrikas (3), C. Andersen (7/5), Helgaard (4), Petrovic (8/2), Hundvin (2), Moller, Madsen (2), Jeong Ho Hong (1)
Dunaferr SE: Palinger, Palffy (2), Pigniczki (3), Gaspar (2), Bohus (4), Ferling (6/4), Nagy (1), Cracana, Borok (2), Turtoczki, Oblisz, Bulath
Attendance 2,600 in Farum Arena
Referees: Methe/Methe, Germany
Suspensions: 7x2, 7x2
May 14, 2003
Chao Zhai: World Handballer of the Year
The readers of World Handball Magazine have chosen 31-year-old Chinese international Chao Zhai as the World Handballer of the Year 2002. The Randers HK representative received 32 percent of the votes. Agnes Farkas of Ferencvaros finished runner-up with 29 percent, while Slagelse's Ausra Fridrikas took third place with 25 percent.
Gro Hammerseng grabbed fourth place, and Kristine Andersen was in fifth - though both of them only getting a few percentage points.
French Bertrand Gille of HSV Hamburg, was named the male player of the year. In total, 29,000 votes were cast. Cecilie Leganger won the honor last year.
The readers of World Handball Magazine have chosen 31-year-old Chinese international Chao Zhai as the World Handballer of the Year 2002. The Randers HK representative received 32 percent of the votes. Agnes Farkas of Ferencvaros finished runner-up with 29 percent, while Slagelse's Ausra Fridrikas took third place with 25 percent.
Gro Hammerseng grabbed fourth place, and Kristine Andersen was in fifth - though both of them only getting a few percentage points.
French Bertrand Gille of HSV Hamburg, was named the male player of the year. In total, 29,000 votes were cast. Cecilie Leganger won the honor last year.
May 13, 2003
Aalborg DH Fishing For Tjugum
They already attracted Astrup and Deriouguina, now the ambitious Aalborg DH is trying to make it a Viborg hattrick by getting hold of Heidi Tjugum. However, the Norwegian keeper has expressed her desire to return home and play for Nordstrand in Oslo and it seems their efforts might be in vain.
Last week Aalborg DH surprisingly hauled in Mia Hundvin, who is leaving Slagelse and ex-partner Camilla Andersen.
Aalborg DH, who recently launched their new web site, extended their contract with last season's top scorer Rikke Nielsen with an extra year.
They already attracted Astrup and Deriouguina, now the ambitious Aalborg DH is trying to make it a Viborg hattrick by getting hold of Heidi Tjugum. However, the Norwegian keeper has expressed her desire to return home and play for Nordstrand in Oslo and it seems their efforts might be in vain.
Last week Aalborg DH surprisingly hauled in Mia Hundvin, who is leaving Slagelse and ex-partner Camilla Andersen.
Aalborg DH, who recently launched their new web site, extended their contract with last season's top scorer Rikke Nielsen with an extra year.
Verhelyuk Going to Soenderjyske HK?
The promoted League team Soenderjyske HK is reportedly negotiating with Maryna Verhelyuk of Spartak Kiev. According to the German-language newspaper Der Nordschleswiger, the 24-year-old has almost reached an agreement with the club from southern Jutland.
The promoted League team Soenderjyske HK is reportedly negotiating with Maryna Verhelyuk of Spartak Kiev. According to the German-language newspaper Der Nordschleswiger, the 24-year-old has almost reached an agreement with the club from southern Jutland.
Myaro Closing in on Kolding
According to Danish newspaper JyskeVestkysten, Kolding IF is about to sign French international Nodjialem Myaro. She has previously been linked to Aalborg DH and Soenderjyske HK, but the newspaper reports that the deal with Kolding is already in place.
Christina Roslyng, Louise Pedersen (both Viborg), and Ana Razdorov (GOG) are also expected to join the club. However, they are also losing a number of key players: Josephine Touray, Lene Degn, Ala Matuschkowitz, Lene Motzkus and Olivera Mugosa.
According to Danish newspaper JyskeVestkysten, Kolding IF is about to sign French international Nodjialem Myaro. She has previously been linked to Aalborg DH and Soenderjyske HK, but the newspaper reports that the deal with Kolding is already in place.
Christina Roslyng, Louise Pedersen (both Viborg), and Ana Razdorov (GOG) are also expected to join the club. However, they are also losing a number of key players: Josephine Touray, Lene Degn, Ala Matuschkowitz, Lene Motzkus and Olivera Mugosa.
May 11, 2003
Morskova Steers Valencia to Victory
With Natalia Morskova back in the lineup El Osito L'Eliana Valencia defeated Krim Eta Kotex 30-27 (14-13) in the first Champions League leg in Spain. The powerful veteran netted 11 times for the home team and was assisted by 7 goals from young Marta Mangue.
Their efforts helped Valencia to a 26-21 lead with ten minutes to go, but the Slovenians shortened the gap to three goals, enhancing their chances for the return match in Ljubljana. Of the 1,000 people in Polideportivo Municipal de L´Eliana, no fewer than 400 had made the trip from Slovenia to support the away team.
They saw a closely balanced first half where Krim keeper Natalia Borysenko stood out with excellent saves. In the second half Morskova delivered a one-woman-show, scoring 10 of Valencia's 16 goals. But Krim wouldn't let go, and especially left wing Tanja Oder with 6 goals kept the 2001 Champions in contention.
Champions League final, 1st Match:
El Osito L'Eliana Valencia - Krim ETA Kotex 30- 27 (14-13)
Valencia:
Eli Lopez, Eivor (keepers)
Cano (2), Mangué (7), Gómez (1), Puche (3/1 pen.), Medved (2/1), Oncina (4), Morskova (11/6), Múgica, Ana Ruiz, Mitrovic, Martí
Krim ETA Kotex:
Dinu, Borysenko (keepers)
Freser (3), Ceckova, Doler (4), Oder (6), Kolakovic (7/5), Tomanovic, Derepasko (2/1), Kurent, Ilic, Matuszewska (4/1), Yatsenko (1)
Attendance: 1,000
Refs: Kekes/Kekes (HUN)
Suspension minutes: 7x2, 5x2
With Natalia Morskova back in the lineup El Osito L'Eliana Valencia defeated Krim Eta Kotex 30-27 (14-13) in the first Champions League leg in Spain. The powerful veteran netted 11 times for the home team and was assisted by 7 goals from young Marta Mangue.
Their efforts helped Valencia to a 26-21 lead with ten minutes to go, but the Slovenians shortened the gap to three goals, enhancing their chances for the return match in Ljubljana. Of the 1,000 people in Polideportivo Municipal de L´Eliana, no fewer than 400 had made the trip from Slovenia to support the away team.
They saw a closely balanced first half where Krim keeper Natalia Borysenko stood out with excellent saves. In the second half Morskova delivered a one-woman-show, scoring 10 of Valencia's 16 goals. But Krim wouldn't let go, and especially left wing Tanja Oder with 6 goals kept the 2001 Champions in contention.
Champions League final, 1st Match:
El Osito L'Eliana Valencia - Krim ETA Kotex 30- 27 (14-13)
Valencia:
Eli Lopez, Eivor (keepers)
Cano (2), Mangué (7), Gómez (1), Puche (3/1 pen.), Medved (2/1), Oncina (4), Morskova (11/6), Múgica, Ana Ruiz, Mitrovic, Martí
Krim ETA Kotex:
Dinu, Borysenko (keepers)
Freser (3), Ceckova, Doler (4), Oder (6), Kolakovic (7/5), Tomanovic, Derepasko (2/1), Kurent, Ilic, Matuszewska (4/1), Yatsenko (1)
Attendance: 1,000
Refs: Kekes/Kekes (HUN)
Suspension minutes: 7x2, 5x2
Dortmund Close to Challenge Cup
Borussia Dortmund conquered HC Selmont Baia Mare 24-16 (13-9) in the first tie of the Challenge Cup final, providing the Germans with a strong advantage on their trip to Romania. 2,000 specators watched as 23-year-old Michaela Seiffert collected 8 goals for the home team. The return match is played on Sunday.
In the Cup Winner's Cup, Spartak Kiev struggled much more in their home match, but did come through with a 30-27 (16-12) win against the strong French side of Besancon. Maryna Verhelyuk scored 9 goals for the Ukrainians, while Castioni and Amariei each hit 6 for the visitors of France.
Borussia Dortmund conquered HC Selmont Baia Mare 24-16 (13-9) in the first tie of the Challenge Cup final, providing the Germans with a strong advantage on their trip to Romania. 2,000 specators watched as 23-year-old Michaela Seiffert collected 8 goals for the home team. The return match is played on Sunday.
In the Cup Winner's Cup, Spartak Kiev struggled much more in their home match, but did come through with a 30-27 (16-12) win against the strong French side of Besancon. Maryna Verhelyuk scored 9 goals for the Ukrainians, while Castioni and Amariei each hit 6 for the visitors of France.
May 10, 2003
Dunaferr Dumps Slagelse
Through a 27-22 (11-11) win over Slagelse FH in the first leg of the EHF final, the Hungarian Champions of Dunaferr SE holds the advantage ahead of the decider in Denmark next weekend.
The match was a tight affair until the middle of the second half. Slagelse held a 1 goal cushion when the notoriously strong 3-2-1 formation of Dunaferr began to wear them down. The Hungarians were awarded with several counter attacks and jumped from a 16-17 deficit to a 24-18 lead in a golden spree that excited the lively crowd in Dunaujvaros.
Slagelse were fully on their heels and on the verge of panic when Hortenzia Szrnka connected to 27-20. Goals from Hong, again filling out on right wing, and a penalty from the dreadful-playing Camilla Andersen reduced the gap to 5. Ivett Nagy had the opportunity to add some extra padding ahead of the return match, but had her penalty denied by Rikke Schmidt in the final seconds.
Dunaferr coach Szilárd Kiss sprung a tactical surprise by opting for a defensive formation at the beginning of a slightly messy first half, thereby wisely saving his trump of going offensive later. Slagelse had a slight edge in play at this point, but a vigilant Katalin Palinger never allowed their lead to grow larger than two.
And in the Dunaferr attack, Bernadett Ferling was a menace. The swift playmaker scored three consecutive goals for the home team and equalled the match at 11-11 at the interval.
Hitting a full 7 goals in the first half, Ferling played a more subdued role in the second half as other key attacking players joined the action for Dunaferr. First Borok and later Szrnka. At 45 minutes, Ferling delivered to line player Bohus who made it 17-17. From then on, Slagelse would get trampled down.
Petrovic had the highest quality in her finishing, and Fridrikas also worked hard to open the fine-tuned Dunaferr defense. But too many errors, especially from Camilla Andersen and Jeong-Ho Hong, proved too costly. As did three missed penalties.
Anja Andersen will need to come up with new solutions quickly if the Danish Champions are to overcome the 5 goal gap on Saturday evening in Farum Arena.
Player of the Match: Katalin Palinger
Best of Dunaferr: Palinger, Ferling, Bohus
Best of Slagelse: Petrovic, Schmidt
EHF Cup Final, First Match:
Dunaferr-Slagelse 27-22 (11-11)
Dunaferr: Bernadett Ferling 8, Rita Borok 5, Hortenzia Szrnka 5, Beata Bohus 3, Gabriella Gaspar and Zsuzsanna Palffy 2, Ivett Nagy and Krisztina Pigniczki 1.
Slagelse: Bojana Petrovic 7, Ausra Fridrikas 4, Camilla Andersen 4, Jeong-Ho Hong 3, Mia Hundvin 3, Mette Melgaard 1.
Suspensions: Dunaferr 0x2, Slagelse 1x2
Attendance: 3,000
Through a 27-22 (11-11) win over Slagelse FH in the first leg of the EHF final, the Hungarian Champions of Dunaferr SE holds the advantage ahead of the decider in Denmark next weekend.
The match was a tight affair until the middle of the second half. Slagelse held a 1 goal cushion when the notoriously strong 3-2-1 formation of Dunaferr began to wear them down. The Hungarians were awarded with several counter attacks and jumped from a 16-17 deficit to a 24-18 lead in a golden spree that excited the lively crowd in Dunaujvaros.
Slagelse were fully on their heels and on the verge of panic when Hortenzia Szrnka connected to 27-20. Goals from Hong, again filling out on right wing, and a penalty from the dreadful-playing Camilla Andersen reduced the gap to 5. Ivett Nagy had the opportunity to add some extra padding ahead of the return match, but had her penalty denied by Rikke Schmidt in the final seconds.
Dunaferr coach Szilárd Kiss sprung a tactical surprise by opting for a defensive formation at the beginning of a slightly messy first half, thereby wisely saving his trump of going offensive later. Slagelse had a slight edge in play at this point, but a vigilant Katalin Palinger never allowed their lead to grow larger than two.
And in the Dunaferr attack, Bernadett Ferling was a menace. The swift playmaker scored three consecutive goals for the home team and equalled the match at 11-11 at the interval.
Hitting a full 7 goals in the first half, Ferling played a more subdued role in the second half as other key attacking players joined the action for Dunaferr. First Borok and later Szrnka. At 45 minutes, Ferling delivered to line player Bohus who made it 17-17. From then on, Slagelse would get trampled down.
Petrovic had the highest quality in her finishing, and Fridrikas also worked hard to open the fine-tuned Dunaferr defense. But too many errors, especially from Camilla Andersen and Jeong-Ho Hong, proved too costly. As did three missed penalties.
Anja Andersen will need to come up with new solutions quickly if the Danish Champions are to overcome the 5 goal gap on Saturday evening in Farum Arena.
Player of the Match: Katalin Palinger
Best of Dunaferr: Palinger, Ferling, Bohus
Best of Slagelse: Petrovic, Schmidt
EHF Cup Final, First Match:
Dunaferr-Slagelse 27-22 (11-11)
Dunaferr: Bernadett Ferling 8, Rita Borok 5, Hortenzia Szrnka 5, Beata Bohus 3, Gabriella Gaspar and Zsuzsanna Palffy 2, Ivett Nagy and Krisztina Pigniczki 1.
Slagelse: Bojana Petrovic 7, Ausra Fridrikas 4, Camilla Andersen 4, Jeong-Ho Hong 3, Mia Hundvin 3, Mette Melgaard 1.
Suspensions: Dunaferr 0x2, Slagelse 1x2
Attendance: 3,000
May 4, 2003
Trier Wins Bundesliga
DJK/MJC Trier has secured the German Championship by defeating Bayer Leverkusen 30-26 (12-15) on Sunday.
DJK/MJC Trier has secured the German Championship by defeating Bayer Leverkusen 30-26 (12-15) on Sunday.
Danish Champions 1988-2003
Slagelse ended a long Viborg streak when they won the Danish Championship 2002/2003. Viborg finished runner-up in what looked to be a disastrous 1997/1998 season after Astrup returned to the club and helped them in the playoffs - much to the dismay of the competing teams. Frederiksberg IF is the all-time leader with 12 Danish Championships.
2003: Slagelse
2002: Viborg
2001: Viborg
2000: Viborg
1999: Viborg
1998: Ikast
1997: Viborg
1996: Viborg
1995: Viborg
1994: Viborg
1993: GOG
1992: GOG
1991: GOG
1990: GOG
1989: FIF
1988: Lyngså
Slagelse carried on an interesting tradition. Except for 2001/2002, the winner of the regular season has also won the playoff each and every time since Lyngså failed to do so in 1987. In 2002 Viborg HK finished second in the regular season.
Slagelse ended a long Viborg streak when they won the Danish Championship 2002/2003. Viborg finished runner-up in what looked to be a disastrous 1997/1998 season after Astrup returned to the club and helped them in the playoffs - much to the dismay of the competing teams. Frederiksberg IF is the all-time leader with 12 Danish Championships.
2003: Slagelse
2002: Viborg
2001: Viborg
2000: Viborg
1999: Viborg
1998: Ikast
1997: Viborg
1996: Viborg
1995: Viborg
1994: Viborg
1993: GOG
1992: GOG
1991: GOG
1990: GOG
1989: FIF
1988: Lyngså
Slagelse carried on an interesting tradition. Except for 2001/2002, the winner of the regular season has also won the playoff each and every time since Lyngså failed to do so in 1987. In 2002 Viborg HK finished second in the regular season.
Pictures from the Final
Photographer Lars Rønbøg has added a gallery from last night to www.picturesport.com. Further down you should be able to locate pictures from the first final in Slagelse as well.
Europamester.dk has made a bunch of vidcaps from the match last night: Direct link. I will refrain from commenting on the quality of the captions (the picture texts), but sometimes not understanding Danish is a blessing.
Photographer Lars Rønbøg has added a gallery from last night to www.picturesport.com. Further down you should be able to locate pictures from the first final in Slagelse as well.
Europamester.dk has made a bunch of vidcaps from the match last night: Direct link. I will refrain from commenting on the quality of the captions (the picture texts), but sometimes not understanding Danish is a blessing.
May 3, 2003
Slagelse Champions
Slagelse FH defeated Ikast/Bording 34-30 (15-14) in the second match in Herning Messecenter to take the Danish Championship for the first time in the club's history. Slagelse won the first match at home 30-29.
Bojana Petrovic was the supreme player on the field. After missing her first four attempts, she scored an unprecedented 14 goals on 14 consecutive shots, only four were penalties.
In the first half, Ikast jumped to an early 4-0 lead as Karin Mortensen produced several quality saves. But Slagelse soon found their fearsome attacking rhythm, and Petrovic smacked in a fierce shot to level at 6-6.
With a fine collective effort Ikast regained control of the match. Tonje Kjærgaard put them ahead 11-9, but Ausra Fridrikas produced several fine solo goals to keep the match tight. Ikast/Bording, who also lost the Danish Cup final to Anja Andersen's team 5 months ago, dropped a 14-12 lead at the end of the first half. An excellent Jeong-Ho Hong on right wing hit the last of three Slagelse goals in a row to make it 15-14 for the visiting team at the break.
The second half was a close affair, but it was Ikast and Jurack who had the most catching up to do as Petrovic seemed unstoppable in the other end. Kristine Andersen made it 26-27 after 48 minutes of play. But then Camilla Andersen suddenly joined the action with her third goal. Petrovic and Hundvin followed suit as Ikast found no answers.
Down 26-30, Christian Dalmose's team made little use of a double 2 minute suspension for Slagelse - one of them against Anja Andersen for mouthing off in usual style.
Rikke Schmidt, who was narrowly turned down for the Danish Euro 2002 squad, produced a string of amazing saves to deny Ikast a chance to bounce back. Occasional goals from Paunica and Jurack were not enough to keep up with Slagelse as the minutes passed by. Jurack scored her 8th goal on 17 tries to make it 29-31.
But then three blows from Petrovic, Fridrikas, and Hong finished off Ikast/Bording. Narcisa Paunica hit the last goal of the match and the Danish league season, 30-34.
And the Slagelse celebration could begin in front of 5,000 spectators in Herning - a city close to Ikast. Only a few hours earlier, a Danish men's team, Skjern, had won the Challenge Cup final in the same arena.
Captain Camilla Andersen, top scorer in the league 5 times in the last 6 years, won her first Danish Championship. Incidentally, just like coach Anja Andersen. Camilla Andersen was named Player of the Year ahead of the final in Herning. Slagelse still has a chance to wrap up a third title of the season when they go head-to-head with Dunaferr, the newly-crowned Champions of Hungary, in the EHF Cup final.
Player of the Match: Bojana Petrovic.
Best of Ikast: Jurack, Kjærgaard, Paunica.
Best of Slagelse: Petrovic, Hong, Fridrikas.
Ikast/Bording-Slagelse 30-34 (14-15)
Ikast/Bording: Grit Jurack 8, Narcisa Paunica 7 (1), Tonje Kjærgaard 4, Henriette Mikkelsen, Line Daugaard and Kristine Andersen 3 (1), Isabel Blanco 2.
Slagelse: Bojana Petrovic 14 (4), Jeong-Ho Hong 6, Ausra Fridrikas 5, Camilla Andersen 4, Mia Hundvin 3, Mette Melgaard and Stine Frank 1.
Suspensions: Ikast 4x2, Slagelse 5x2.
Attendance: 5,000 in Herning Messecenter.
Slagelse FH defeated Ikast/Bording 34-30 (15-14) in the second match in Herning Messecenter to take the Danish Championship for the first time in the club's history. Slagelse won the first match at home 30-29.
Bojana Petrovic was the supreme player on the field. After missing her first four attempts, she scored an unprecedented 14 goals on 14 consecutive shots, only four were penalties.
In the first half, Ikast jumped to an early 4-0 lead as Karin Mortensen produced several quality saves. But Slagelse soon found their fearsome attacking rhythm, and Petrovic smacked in a fierce shot to level at 6-6.
With a fine collective effort Ikast regained control of the match. Tonje Kjærgaard put them ahead 11-9, but Ausra Fridrikas produced several fine solo goals to keep the match tight. Ikast/Bording, who also lost the Danish Cup final to Anja Andersen's team 5 months ago, dropped a 14-12 lead at the end of the first half. An excellent Jeong-Ho Hong on right wing hit the last of three Slagelse goals in a row to make it 15-14 for the visiting team at the break.
The second half was a close affair, but it was Ikast and Jurack who had the most catching up to do as Petrovic seemed unstoppable in the other end. Kristine Andersen made it 26-27 after 48 minutes of play. But then Camilla Andersen suddenly joined the action with her third goal. Petrovic and Hundvin followed suit as Ikast found no answers.
Down 26-30, Christian Dalmose's team made little use of a double 2 minute suspension for Slagelse - one of them against Anja Andersen for mouthing off in usual style.
Rikke Schmidt, who was narrowly turned down for the Danish Euro 2002 squad, produced a string of amazing saves to deny Ikast a chance to bounce back. Occasional goals from Paunica and Jurack were not enough to keep up with Slagelse as the minutes passed by. Jurack scored her 8th goal on 17 tries to make it 29-31.
But then three blows from Petrovic, Fridrikas, and Hong finished off Ikast/Bording. Narcisa Paunica hit the last goal of the match and the Danish league season, 30-34.
And the Slagelse celebration could begin in front of 5,000 spectators in Herning - a city close to Ikast. Only a few hours earlier, a Danish men's team, Skjern, had won the Challenge Cup final in the same arena.
Captain Camilla Andersen, top scorer in the league 5 times in the last 6 years, won her first Danish Championship. Incidentally, just like coach Anja Andersen. Camilla Andersen was named Player of the Year ahead of the final in Herning. Slagelse still has a chance to wrap up a third title of the season when they go head-to-head with Dunaferr, the newly-crowned Champions of Hungary, in the EHF Cup final.
Player of the Match: Bojana Petrovic.
Best of Ikast: Jurack, Kjærgaard, Paunica.
Best of Slagelse: Petrovic, Hong, Fridrikas.
Ikast/Bording-Slagelse 30-34 (14-15)
Ikast/Bording: Grit Jurack 8, Narcisa Paunica 7 (1), Tonje Kjærgaard 4, Henriette Mikkelsen, Line Daugaard and Kristine Andersen 3 (1), Isabel Blanco 2.
Slagelse: Bojana Petrovic 14 (4), Jeong-Ho Hong 6, Ausra Fridrikas 5, Camilla Andersen 4, Mia Hundvin 3, Mette Melgaard and Stine Frank 1.
Suspensions: Ikast 4x2, Slagelse 5x2.
Attendance: 5,000 in Herning Messecenter.
No Poltoratskaya, Astrup Instead
The farce continues, but this time the news is definite. Viborg HK's Heidi Astrup will join HS Nord next season. Astrup was expected to join Chateraise, a Japanese club where she spent most of the 97/98 season, but that deal didn't come through.
Since her childhood Astrup has been a Viborg player, but internal disputes with the club triggered the 30-year-old to look elsewhere for the next season, and Chateraise wanted her to come back and play professionally in the Japanese league. But when they later retracted their offer, HS Nord apparently came into play.
Astrup joins teammate Natalia Deriouguina, who signed with the Aalborg club in April, on the trip north. Heidi Astrup has won numerous Danish Championships with Viborg, but played a weak spring season after being one of the most dominant performers in the domestic league for a decade. And for the first time in ten years, the Danish final takes place without the participation of Viborg HK.
In the Denmark shirt, Astrup has won the European Championship and she was part of the Olympic gold-winning squad of Atlanta 1996, but since turned down the national team and the heavy media interest surrounding it.
It seems that the speculation of certain news sites was rather poorly founded. Both Farkas and Poltoratskaya were brought up as possible signings, but that didn't materialize. At least not this time around.
As of next season, HS Nord is changing its name to Aalborg Damehåndbod - Aalborg Ladies' Handball.
The farce continues, but this time the news is definite. Viborg HK's Heidi Astrup will join HS Nord next season. Astrup was expected to join Chateraise, a Japanese club where she spent most of the 97/98 season, but that deal didn't come through.
Since her childhood Astrup has been a Viborg player, but internal disputes with the club triggered the 30-year-old to look elsewhere for the next season, and Chateraise wanted her to come back and play professionally in the Japanese league. But when they later retracted their offer, HS Nord apparently came into play.
Astrup joins teammate Natalia Deriouguina, who signed with the Aalborg club in April, on the trip north. Heidi Astrup has won numerous Danish Championships with Viborg, but played a weak spring season after being one of the most dominant performers in the domestic league for a decade. And for the first time in ten years, the Danish final takes place without the participation of Viborg HK.
In the Denmark shirt, Astrup has won the European Championship and she was part of the Olympic gold-winning squad of Atlanta 1996, but since turned down the national team and the heavy media interest surrounding it.
It seems that the speculation of certain news sites was rather poorly founded. Both Farkas and Poltoratskaya were brought up as possible signings, but that didn't materialize. At least not this time around.
As of next season, HS Nord is changing its name to Aalborg Damehåndbod - Aalborg Ladies' Handball.
New Report: No Farkas, Poltoratskaya Instead
Boldnyt.com appears to have changed its tune - or perhaps they are making it up as they go along. It is now being reported that Lada Toljatti's playmaker and star of the Russian national team, Irina Poltoratskaya, is currently in Denmark. This information is being linked to HS Nord's press meeting tomorrow.
Unless the club plans to buy both Farkas and Poltoratskaya, which I somehow doubt, it's probably safe to assume that Farkas is still a Budapest player.
With compatriot Deriouguina already hired, the transition to the new surroundings would be a lot easier for Poltoratskaya. It is also well-known that she has wanted to join a foreign club for some time.
Boldnyt.com appears to have changed its tune - or perhaps they are making it up as they go along. It is now being reported that Lada Toljatti's playmaker and star of the Russian national team, Irina Poltoratskaya, is currently in Denmark. This information is being linked to HS Nord's press meeting tomorrow.
Unless the club plans to buy both Farkas and Poltoratskaya, which I somehow doubt, it's probably safe to assume that Farkas is still a Budapest player.
With compatriot Deriouguina already hired, the transition to the new surroundings would be a lot easier for Poltoratskaya. It is also well-known that she has wanted to join a foreign club for some time.
May 2, 2003
Report: Farkas Joining HS Nord
The promoted Danish League club HS Nord will hold a press meeting where they are expected to announce new signings for the next season. According to Boldnyt.com, one of those signings will be none other Agnes Farkas of Ferencvaros, one of Europe's top players.
Farkas has previously been linked with FC Copenhagen Handball, but recently she has also been mentioned in connection with the ambitious HS Nord. Nothing is official, but the Aalborg club, which will also be changing its name, has promised that it will present news that will be highly noteworthy in the world of handball.
HS Nord has already secured Natalia Deriouguina for its lineup, and it's also anticipated that a deal with Nodjialem Myaro from Ikast will be made official tomorrow. But whether Farkas is going to Denmark or not remains to be seen.
The promoted Danish League club HS Nord will hold a press meeting where they are expected to announce new signings for the next season. According to Boldnyt.com, one of those signings will be none other Agnes Farkas of Ferencvaros, one of Europe's top players.
Farkas has previously been linked with FC Copenhagen Handball, but recently she has also been mentioned in connection with the ambitious HS Nord. Nothing is official, but the Aalborg club, which will also be changing its name, has promised that it will present news that will be highly noteworthy in the world of handball.
HS Nord has already secured Natalia Deriouguina for its lineup, and it's also anticipated that a deal with Nodjialem Myaro from Ikast will be made official tomorrow. But whether Farkas is going to Denmark or not remains to be seen.
Junior World Championship Draw
The draw for the preliminary groups of the Junior World Championship in Macedonia in August has been held in Skopje.
Group A: Croatia, Sweden, Portugal, Japan, Uruguay
Group B: Norway, Czech Republic, Macedonia, China, Congo
Group C: Russia, Denmark, Korea, Yugoslavia, Brazil
Group D: Hungary, Romania, Germany, Poland, Angola
The playing schedule and the venues will be publicized later. The Championship takes place from the 4th to 17th of August. In Hungary 2001, Russia defeated the host nation to take the gold, with Germany grabbing the bronze.
The draw for the preliminary groups of the Junior World Championship in Macedonia in August has been held in Skopje.
Group A: Croatia, Sweden, Portugal, Japan, Uruguay
Group B: Norway, Czech Republic, Macedonia, China, Congo
Group C: Russia, Denmark, Korea, Yugoslavia, Brazil
Group D: Hungary, Romania, Germany, Poland, Angola
The playing schedule and the venues will be publicized later. The Championship takes place from the 4th to 17th of August. In Hungary 2001, Russia defeated the host nation to take the gold, with Germany grabbing the bronze.
Team Eslöv Sweeps Swedish Title
Needing only the minimum of 3 matches, Team Eslövs IK whitewashed Skuru IK in the playoff final for the Swedish Championship. Team Eslöv scored their third consecutive victory in the best-of-five series at home on Thursday, winning a convincing 32-25 (13-10). Fanny Lagerström, who is only 19 years old, clinched top scoring honors with 10 goals for the reigning Swedish Champions from Eslöv.
Skuru's Veronica Isaksson, Swedish veteran and experienced national player, had to settle for 6 goals, 5 of which came on penalties. Her teammate Katarina Arfwidsson, another well-known Sweden performer, slammed in 5 shots. But the absence of line player Anna Rapp, who is currently on maternal leave, diluted the Skuru team, which was knocked out at the quarterfinal stage of the Challenge Cup by the German title favorites from Trier.
Needing only the minimum of 3 matches, Team Eslövs IK whitewashed Skuru IK in the playoff final for the Swedish Championship. Team Eslöv scored their third consecutive victory in the best-of-five series at home on Thursday, winning a convincing 32-25 (13-10). Fanny Lagerström, who is only 19 years old, clinched top scoring honors with 10 goals for the reigning Swedish Champions from Eslöv.
Skuru's Veronica Isaksson, Swedish veteran and experienced national player, had to settle for 6 goals, 5 of which came on penalties. Her teammate Katarina Arfwidsson, another well-known Sweden performer, slammed in 5 shots. But the absence of line player Anna Rapp, who is currently on maternal leave, diluted the Skuru team, which was knocked out at the quarterfinal stage of the Challenge Cup by the German title favorites from Trier.
All-Star Team Announced
The All-Star team of the of the Danish League for the season 2002/2003 was made public ahead of the first championship final in Slagelse.
Keeper: Karin Mortensen, Ikast/Bording
Left wing: Henriette Mikkelsen, Ikast/Bording
Left back: Bojana Petrovic, Slagelse FH
Playmaker: Camilla Andersen, Slagelse FH
Right back: Trine Jensen, Ikast/Bording
Right wing: Josephine Touray, Kolding IF
Line player: Natalia Deriouguina, Viborg HK
The only truly strange omission is Chao Zhai of Randers HK - who scored almost twice as many goals as Petrovic in the regular season. That ought to count for something, although it has a lot to do with her dominant role on the team - and a good deal of penalty throws. Also interesting to see Deriouguina beat Olga Assink, who was voted Player of the Year 2002 in Denmark! Trine Jensen getting the nod over Mette Vestergaard - FCK's most prominent player - is also surprising.
The All-Star team of the of the Danish League for the season 2002/2003 was made public ahead of the first championship final in Slagelse.
Keeper: Karin Mortensen, Ikast/Bording
Left wing: Henriette Mikkelsen, Ikast/Bording
Left back: Bojana Petrovic, Slagelse FH
Playmaker: Camilla Andersen, Slagelse FH
Right back: Trine Jensen, Ikast/Bording
Right wing: Josephine Touray, Kolding IF
Line player: Natalia Deriouguina, Viborg HK
The only truly strange omission is Chao Zhai of Randers HK - who scored almost twice as many goals as Petrovic in the regular season. That ought to count for something, although it has a lot to do with her dominant role on the team - and a good deal of penalty throws. Also interesting to see Deriouguina beat Olga Assink, who was voted Player of the Year 2002 in Denmark! Trine Jensen getting the nod over Mette Vestergaard - FCK's most prominent player - is also surprising.
May 1, 2003
Slagelse Withstands Battling Ikast
Some girls have all the luck. In an agonizingly close showdown, reminiscent of the tight semifinals with Viborg HK, Slagelse narrowly came through to defeat Ikast/Bording 30-29 (14-13) in the first match of the Danish Championship final to gain the upper hand ahead of the return match on Saturday.
With four seconds on the clock, 10-goal queen Grit Jurack had a chance to tie the match, but hit the ball a few inches wide. With just four players on the court, Slagelse earned a crucial win that guarantees them a third match in Slagelse if they are to lose the away game in Herning Messecenter where more than 4,000 spectators are expected. And a draw will make the club Danish Champion for the first time in its history.
Ikast got off to the best start in Antvorskovhallen in Slagelse, leading 10-8 midway through the first half. But Camilla Andersen, who was marked by an Ikast defender for most of the match, scored her 4th goal on as many tries to make it 12-12, and Slagelse went ahead at half time.
10 minutes into the second half, the Slagelse fans had plenty to cheer. A vintage Ausra Fridrikas slammed in her fifth goal to make it 22-18, and Anja Andersen's team looked to be running away with the match. But Ikast staged a comeback as Kristine Andersen, 6 goals on the night, started to shine and joined havoc-wreaking Grit Jurack in the attack.
A sharp and gritty Line Daugaard netted for the fifth time to reduce the gap to just one goal. But Slagelse persisted and appeared to draw clear again when Camilla Andersen converted a penalty to 27-24, with Ikast/Bording having a player suspended for 2 minutes.
Jurack kept Ikast going by cutting the Slagelse lead back down to one goal, but the effort looked in vain when right wing Stina Madsen scored her fourth goal to put the home team ahead 30-27 with 5 minutes to go.
Grit Jurack, taking 17 shots to hit her 10 goals, stepped up to the challenge and got two goals, while Slagelse suddenly found itself in an offensive drought. In the riveting last minute both Fridrikas and Petrovic were sent off as they tried to halt Ikast's last attack. And as the seconds ticked down, it was all down to Jurack and the power of her left hand from the 9 meter line.
Player of the Match: Ausra Fridrikas, Slagelse.
Best of Slagelse: Fridrikas, Andersen, Petrovic, Hong, Madsen.
Best of Ikast: Jurack, Daugaard, Andersen.
Better luck next time: Hundvin, Mikkelsen, Paunica.
Danish Championship Final, 1st Match:
Slagelse-Ikast/Bording 30-29 (14-13)
Slagelse: Ausra Fridrikas and Camilla Andersen 7, Stina Madsen and Bojana Petrovic 4, Stine Frank and Jeong Ho-Hong 3, Mette Melgaard and Mia Hundvin 1.
Ikast/Bording: Grit Jurack 10, Kristine Andersen 6, Line Daugaard 5, Tonje Kjærgaard 3, Sara Hansen 2, Isabel Blanco, Henriette Mikkelsen and Narcisa Paunica 1.
Suspensions: Slagelse 3x2, Ikast 2x2
Attendance: 1,575 in Antvorskovhallen, Slagelse
Some girls have all the luck. In an agonizingly close showdown, reminiscent of the tight semifinals with Viborg HK, Slagelse narrowly came through to defeat Ikast/Bording 30-29 (14-13) in the first match of the Danish Championship final to gain the upper hand ahead of the return match on Saturday.
With four seconds on the clock, 10-goal queen Grit Jurack had a chance to tie the match, but hit the ball a few inches wide. With just four players on the court, Slagelse earned a crucial win that guarantees them a third match in Slagelse if they are to lose the away game in Herning Messecenter where more than 4,000 spectators are expected. And a draw will make the club Danish Champion for the first time in its history.
Ikast got off to the best start in Antvorskovhallen in Slagelse, leading 10-8 midway through the first half. But Camilla Andersen, who was marked by an Ikast defender for most of the match, scored her 4th goal on as many tries to make it 12-12, and Slagelse went ahead at half time.
10 minutes into the second half, the Slagelse fans had plenty to cheer. A vintage Ausra Fridrikas slammed in her fifth goal to make it 22-18, and Anja Andersen's team looked to be running away with the match. But Ikast staged a comeback as Kristine Andersen, 6 goals on the night, started to shine and joined havoc-wreaking Grit Jurack in the attack.
A sharp and gritty Line Daugaard netted for the fifth time to reduce the gap to just one goal. But Slagelse persisted and appeared to draw clear again when Camilla Andersen converted a penalty to 27-24, with Ikast/Bording having a player suspended for 2 minutes.
Jurack kept Ikast going by cutting the Slagelse lead back down to one goal, but the effort looked in vain when right wing Stina Madsen scored her fourth goal to put the home team ahead 30-27 with 5 minutes to go.
Grit Jurack, taking 17 shots to hit her 10 goals, stepped up to the challenge and got two goals, while Slagelse suddenly found itself in an offensive drought. In the riveting last minute both Fridrikas and Petrovic were sent off as they tried to halt Ikast's last attack. And as the seconds ticked down, it was all down to Jurack and the power of her left hand from the 9 meter line.
Player of the Match: Ausra Fridrikas, Slagelse.
Best of Slagelse: Fridrikas, Andersen, Petrovic, Hong, Madsen.
Best of Ikast: Jurack, Daugaard, Andersen.
Better luck next time: Hundvin, Mikkelsen, Paunica.
Danish Championship Final, 1st Match:
Slagelse-Ikast/Bording 30-29 (14-13)
Slagelse: Ausra Fridrikas and Camilla Andersen 7, Stina Madsen and Bojana Petrovic 4, Stine Frank and Jeong Ho-Hong 3, Mette Melgaard and Mia Hundvin 1.
Ikast/Bording: Grit Jurack 10, Kristine Andersen 6, Line Daugaard 5, Tonje Kjærgaard 3, Sara Hansen 2, Isabel Blanco, Henriette Mikkelsen and Narcisa Paunica 1.
Suspensions: Slagelse 3x2, Ikast 2x2
Attendance: 1,575 in Antvorskovhallen, Slagelse
Report: Freser a Done Deal
Danish TV2 reports that Slagelse FH has already signed a contract with 28-year-old Anja Freser of Krim Ljubljana. The Slovenian is expected to be presented on the 15th of May along with other new signings.
Freser rates among the strongest left-handed backs in Europe and was an integral part of the Champions League winning side of 2001. This season, she also has the chance to capture Europe's finest club title with Krim.
Slagelse has not yet confirmed the report.
Danish TV2 reports that Slagelse FH has already signed a contract with 28-year-old Anja Freser of Krim Ljubljana. The Slovenian is expected to be presented on the 15th of May along with other new signings.
Freser rates among the strongest left-handed backs in Europe and was an integral part of the Champions League winning side of 2001. This season, she also has the chance to capture Europe's finest club title with Krim.
Slagelse has not yet confirmed the report.
Trier On Verge of Championship
DJK MJC Trier denied their closest challengers of Buxtehuder SV 33-29 (17-12) to move within just 1 point of the German title. A sold-out arena of 1,150 spectators watched as young playmaker Maren Baumbach hit 8 goals for the home team, while Susanne Henke delivered 9 for the visiting team.
"Die Miezen", as the team of Trier is known, can now wrap up the Bundesliga on Saturday with a draw against Bayer Leverkusen.
DJK MJC Trier denied their closest challengers of Buxtehuder SV 33-29 (17-12) to move within just 1 point of the German title. A sold-out arena of 1,150 spectators watched as young playmaker Maren Baumbach hit 8 goals for the home team, while Susanne Henke delivered 9 for the visiting team.
"Die Miezen", as the team of Trier is known, can now wrap up the Bundesliga on Saturday with a draw against Bayer Leverkusen.
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