19.11.2007, 05:07
Lada earn two more points

The Russians had to suffer for the two points against Kometal with new coach on the bench.

Lada earn two more points

Lada Togliatti got one step closer to the Main Round after beating Kometal GP by 27-24. Lada secured the two points with more difficulty than expected.

Kometal GP had their chances, but Lada used the advantage of a strong backcourt. Lada need just one point from two matches to go on.

Kometal GP still have a chance to secure the third place in the group, but they need two victories in January 2008 when the CL resumes.

This was the debut game of Kometal’s new coach, Ljubomir Savevski. His presence had an effect on some of the players. Savavski had faith in more players from the bench who all boosted their confidence and showed that they can play well.

The Brazilian Ana Amorim, and Alegra Oholanga played more in defence and in attack as well.

The game was a mix of periods of good performance from both teams.Kometal first took the lead – 3-6 at one beginning – and then Lada fought back and gained advantage.

In the first half Postnova and Bliznova, the most dangerous Russians, could only score four field goals, but Vinogradova always found the way to score. Goalkeeper Tanja Andrejeva saved 11 shots in the first half and she was one of the best players.

Lada's Postnova and Sidorova led the team to a victory in the second half. Postnova scored seven from her 11 goals, and Sirdorova made 12 saves after the break.

Lada made a good 3-4 goal advantage that they were able to keep until the end as the match finished with a 27-24 for Lada.

TEXT: Goran Antevski