Impressive Lublin earn maiden win against Metz

MKS Selgros Lublin’s impressive outing against Metz Handball brought the Polish champions their first win in ten years in the Women’s EHF Champions League. The French side could not build on their Round 2 success against HCM Baia Mare and were beaten by a four-goal margin.

The last time MKS Selgros Lublin tasted success in the European top flight was 2004, with the Polish side winning at home by a three-goal margin 33:30 against Alsa Elda Prestigio.

GROUP D

MKS Selgros Lublin (POL) vs Metz Handball (FRA) 35:31 (17:16)

It was a high tempo game that brought the Polish champions the first win on the back of ten straight defeats. Lublin’s attacking prowess was key in them earning two badly needed points against the French outfit.

Motivated by Baia Mare’s loss against Larvik HK on Friday, Lublin entered the game focused on the win and got off to a perfect start, taking a 7:4 lead after only 9 minutes. However, Metz’s defence remained strong and fought back winning back vital balls, putting the French team into a 8:10 lead.

The rest of the first half gave us a flurry of goals with neither of the defences being able to stop the other team. While Lublin scored an outstanding 68% of their shots, Metz managed only 61% efficiency in their attack, therefore it was no surprise that the Polish side finished the first half with a one-goal lead going into the dressing room at 17:16.

While Metz started better the second half, it was Marta Gega who inspired Lublin's epic comeback. The 28-year old scored six goals in seven minutes which brought the Polish champions into the lead at 28:26.

A lead that Sabina Wlodek’s team protected right until the end, focusing on breaking down the attack and converting devastating fast-breaks leaving the final score at 35:31. A win which throws this group wide open.