21.09.2007, 11:55
BM Valladolid: first big test for Portland

The Spanish teams will have easy weekend before the start of the CL season - except for Portland.

BM Valladolid: first big test for Portland

One top match will be played in the Asobal League this weekend: Valladolid will host Portland. Ciudad Real, Barcelona and Ademar will have easier tasks, but Portland will have a very difficult job in Valladolid. This is one of the most difficult home courts in Spain and the serious candidates for the title must pass the “Valladolid test”. It can be also be the first game to see the real power of the new Portland of Cabanas.

The presence of Rastko Nikolic is the great doubt for Javier Cabanas. The Serbian has a problem with a finger on his right hand, but he hopes to play this important game. Carvajal and Andorinho will also be missing. Kjelling has been out of the trainings this week too. The Norwegian had stomach problems but he will be in the team on Sunday.

Easier challanges for the others

Ciudad Real and Barcelona must travel far this weekend, but the games are not very difficult. Ciudad Real visit Teucro that lost in the first round against Barcelona. Dujshebaev can’t count on Urios Fonseca this time. Barcelona will play against Arrate that suffered in Pamplona against Portland. However, the Cadenas team will have to work hardly for the victory. Ademar Leon are the only CL team to play at home. Antequera will try to surprise Ribera’s team, but it does not seem to be an easy job.

TEXT: Fernando Urra Goñi