In a packed Opperdam sports hall, Volendam lost the second game in the best-of-three against Lions 34-26. As a result, the Limburgers take the national title in handball. “Last week it was more equal. Today they were the better ones”, Volendam coach Geert Hinskens was honest afterwards.
After the 28-25 defeat in Sittard last week, the assignment was clear for Volendam. To drag out a third game, Geert Hinskens’ team had to win. In the first half it looked good and the North Hollanders went into the dressing room with a 14-13 lead.
“We should have taken more distance in the first half”
In the second half, the roles were reversed and things started to turn for the Limburgers. Volendam missed a lot and everything flew in at Lions. This resulted in a big defeat for the North Hollanders. “We should have taken more distance in the first half. That doesn’t work and then you give them the opportunity to hook up. After that they play a very good match and they rightly won,” said Hinskens.
Aalsmeer dethroned
After six years, the national championship goes back to the Limburg club. Aalsmeer won the national title in the past four years, but Bert Bouwer’s team finished third in the regular season.
Text continues below video.
After six years, the national championship goes back to the Limburg club. Aalsmeer won the national title in the past four years, but Bert Bouwer’s team finished third in the regular season.
Text continues below video.
Proud of season
No national title for Volendam, but the handball club from the fishing village can look back on a good season. Last month, the team from Volendam did win the national cup. “Three weeks ago we had nothing at all. We will win the cup and then we will lose the final for the national championship. That with eight new boys,” said player Jordy Baijens.
💬 Don’t want to miss anything from NH Sport?
- Watch NH Sport on TV every Monday at 5:10 PM
- Listen to NH Sport on NH Radio on Fridays from 7-10 PM and Sundays from 5-7 PM
- Like our Facebook page or follow us Twitter