01.10.2007, 12:58
Celje take valuable point from Veszprém

The Slovenians celebrate after a last second goal in Hungary. Group F promises lots of excitement.

Celje take valuable point from Veszprém

In Group F, generally considered to be the toughest in the Champions League, MKB Veszprém hosted Celje Pivovarna Lasko. Veszprém was unbeaten since March 2005 on home court, while the Slovenians arrived with a newly built team.

After some chaotic initial minutes, Veszprém found their strategy soon and made it 4-2 after a 0-2 for Celje by the 9th minute. Celje were trying to confuse Veszprém by changing their defensive formation continuously, but the hosts accelerated the game. The home supporters had to wait until the end of the first half to take a comfortable 4-goal lead (13-9 in the 27th minute).

The first half was characterised by perfect goalkeeping on both sides: Peric – CL winner with Celje in 2004 – in the Veszprém goal, Skof on the other side.

Celje level the game up

The second half started with enormous pressure from the Slovenian side on the Hungarians. Veszprém tried individual play, but Skof saved clear chances. Celje needed only 10 minutes to level the game (16-16).

Gál and Vujin pulled the Hungarian team, but the hosts held no greater advantage than two goals. Just 15 seconds before the end Veszprém had the ball, but Pásztor made a step foul and. Kozlina equalised just before the final whistle with his fifth goal.

Celje take a point with a 24-24 draw, which is a valuable result in this exciting CL group.

TEXT: Judit Juhász (handball.hu)