Handball Bundesliga team SG Flensburg-Handewitt started the group phase of the European League with a hard-earned victory. After a weak first half against the Spanish representative BN Benidorm they still managed a 35:30 (16:19).
Especially in the first round, it was noticeable that the Flensburg team didn’t seem to take the task seriously on Tuesday evening in their home arena in front of a manageable crowd of 1,329 spectators. The North Germans made numerous simple mistakes and inaccurate shots – which made the Spaniards increasingly brave and self-confident.
Flensburg defense not up to par in the first half
In the first half, however, the problems of the North Germans on the defensive were more serious. “What are we doing back there? Can you explain that to me?” Coach Maik Machulla asked his players during a break. Because Flensburg lost control of the game after eleven minutes after a temporary 9:7 lead.
Taking over and handing over rarely worked for the home side in the first 30 minutes. Benidorm took advantage of the coordination problems in the SG defense and went into half-time with a deserved 19:16 lead. Simon Hald Jensen also received a red card for three time penalties.
Late catching up is rewarded in the end
After the change of sides, little changed at first, the Spaniards held their lead because Flensburg initially couldn’t get their coverage problem under control. But a strong phase by Benjamin Buric and concentrated shots allowed the Flensburg team to equalize at 22:22 in the 39th minute through Magnus Röd.
After that, the game tipped over, the Spaniards missed their chances and the hosts got the game and opponents under control. August Pedersen scored in the 45th minute to make it 26:24, the SG extended the lead to 28:24 within two minutes. The Flensburg team didn’t let the victory be taken away from them afterwards. The best thrower at the SG with 7 goals was Göran Sögard Johannessen.
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NDR 2 Sports | 10/25/2022 | 11:03 p.m
