HBL: VfL Gummersbach lets it go – defeat at Rhein-Neckar Löwen

As of: December 12, 2025 12:17 a.m

VfL Gummersbach did not win for the third game in a row. After two recent draws, VfL lost at the Rhein-Neckar Löwen.

In a game that was evenly balanced for long stretches, Gummersbach lost its away game 32:34 (19:18). Coach Gudjon Valur Sigurdsson’s team remains sixth in the table after their fourth defeat of the season, but loses touch with the top teams.

Gummersbach with the better start

VfL started the game well on Thursday evening and, thanks to a strong initial phase from goalkeeper Bertram Obling, gained their first major lead of four goals (9:5) after ten minutes.

However, the Lions came back shortly afterwards with a 4-0 run and an open and balanced exchange of blows developed in which the tempo of both offensive lines dominated. VfL gave up a two-goal lead five minutes before the break. A second 4-0 run by the hosts gave the Lions the lead at halftime (19:18).

Battle of attrition in round two

In the second half, neither team was able to break away clearly; the defensive lines now had more access to the opposing offense. While the game in the first half was characterized by tempo, in the second half the focus was on the fight for every ball.

VfL increasingly despaired of Lions goalkeeper David Späth’s strong performance and had to demonstrate comeback qualities for the first time. 20 minutes before the end, VfL equalized a two-goal deficit to make it 25:25.

The final phase belongs to the hosts

This time in the final phase it was a 3-0 run that brought the preliminary decision for the Rhein-Neckar Löwen. The hosts had the momentum on their side in the last ten minutes and never let Gummersbach get within two goals.

VfL continues on Sunday in the home game against the next big name. At 6 p.m. Gummersbach welcomes league leaders SC Magdeburg.

Sources:

Broadcast: WDR.de, “Rhein-Neckar Lions decide duel against Gummersbach”, December 12th, 2025, 12:10 a.m