25.02.2008, 12:36
Medvedi back in the game

After beating Ivry, Chehovskie Medvedi have 4 points in Group 1 similarly to Kiel and Ademar Leon.

Medvedi back in the game

In front of 1,500 spectators in Paris, Chehovskie Medvedi defeated Ivry by 34:29 (16:15).

Despite the Russian physical strength, the French team managed to impose their rhythm from the very beginning of the match. Maximov was forced to take a time-out in the 12th minute. But it did not help much and the hosts had a 10:8 and 12:10 lead. At the end of the first half Dibirov punished the mistakes of the Frenchmen and Medvedi went to break with the one goal of advantage, 16:15.

Decisive Igropulo

In second half, the team of Vladimir Maximov increased the margin to 3 goals, but with the great efforts of Guilbert and Hadjali, Ivry took the lead again at 23:22. Then the bears (Medvedi) were really eager to win: Igropulo was decisive with the many goals he scored. The match ended with a clear Chehovskie Medvedi victory, 34:29.

The Russian right back, Igropulo, was the best scorer of the match with 12 goals. His team-mate Dibirov scored 8 goals, just as Hadjali for the home team.

Satisfied Maximov

The legendary Russian coach, Vladimir Maximov, was happy about the win that allows his team to fight for the 1st position of Group 1.

“Defence was the key today. We did well in defence, which gave great difficulties for our opponents. My team was a little bit scared when Ivry had more players on court, but we overcame it and we were even able to score in those moments,” said Maximov.

With three defeats in the Main Round, Ivry are out of the race for the first spot in Group 1. Chehovskie Medvedi have 4 points, similarly to Kiel and Ademar Leon.

TEXT: Ivan Ambros