Russian runners-up beat Romanians from Constanta 27:25 in the opener of Round 4.
First victory for St. Petersburg
Group C:
HC St. Petersburg (RUS) vs. HCM Constanta (ROU) 27:25 (14:10)
St. Petersburg remain unbeaten on home ground and took their first victory of this season: After the draw against Metalurg two weeks ago, the Russian runners-up defeated the Romanian champions from Constanta well deserved on Wednesday evening in the opener of Round 4 of the VELUX EHF Champions League.
The host started well, as Constanta had problems in attack. In minute 23 the Russian lead were already seven goals at the score of 12:6, before Constanta woke up and reduced to 14:12 in minute 32.
But then the bigger efficiency in attack and the physical advantages in defence paved the way to the home victory. After the 25:19 St. Petersburg was close to celebrate, but then Constanta showed their last sign of life by reducing the gap to 24:26 in the final stage.
After this defeat the chances for Constanta (still zero points) have decreased to a minimum.
Top scorers were Stavrositu (Constanta) and Shindin (St. Petersburg) with each seven goals.
TEXT:
Björn Pazen