Turning point for Ikast

One of most surprising results in the first round of the women’s group stage was undoubtedly Ikast/Brande´s 31-25 home win against title holder Zvezda Zvenigorod.

The Danes were even leading by ten goals early in the second half. This is a huge surprise taking in consideration that Ikast are only seventh in the Danish league with nine points after nine matches. Just one week before they were eliminated in the Danish Cup semi-final by KIF Vejen. Eurohandball.com talks to Ikast coach Kenneth Jensen about his team’s sensational performance.

Eurohandball.com: After quite an unsuccessful start in Denmark you won easily against the CL winners. Please explain!

Kenneth Jensen: If I knew the answer, I would have used this knowledge in the domestic league long time ago. I think part of the reason is that we have players who won a lot with their various national teams, but never had a chance to play in the Champions League. Therefore they have extra motivation for this competition. I think we saw this in our qualification matches already where we defeated a strong team such as Brasov with no less than ten goals.

I know that Zvezda had several changes in their team before the season and they have injuries too. However, it is true about us too: we changed six players before and we have several injuries at the moment.

Eurohandball.com: Was this match the turning point for you?

Kenneth Jensen: I’m pretty sure it was. In fact I saw it coming for some time. Our performance in domestic matches has improved lately.

Eurohandball.com: What does this success mean in Group A?

Kenneth Jensen: It means that the group is still open and that we have the chance to take one of the two positions qualifying for the main round. However, we are still not favourites for that. I believe Győr are the greatest favourites in the group. We will visit there this weekend. They have a fantastic home court, so we are definitely in for a hard challenge. I’m sure that Zvezda will improve in the coming months.

Eurohandball.com: Your left winger Malene Dalgaard had to finish the match in the 7th minute after a tackle by goalkeeper Suslina. In addition, your goalkeeper Camilla Eriksen could not play at all. What is their situation?

Kenneth Jensen: We thought first that Malene Dalgaard suffered a concussion, but now it seems more some kind of whiplash. She still feels dizzy and we cannot tell if she will be fit for Sunday. Our other left winger, Line Fruensgaard, is injured too.

Camilla Eriksen was away for family reasons and we will know later when she can play again.