15.10.2009, 01:02
Medvedi go for top

After important away points from Szeged and Valladolid, team of Vladimir Maximov aim for top position in group A.

Medvedi go for top

Russian Champions had good start in CL this season. From two hard away matches they have collected two valuable points - proving their role of favourites in group A.

Considering the fact that Russian team very rarely take points from away matches, this could be sign of additional strength and determination arising in Maximov's team. In first round against Pick Szeged Medvedi had lead from the middle of first half all the way until last minute when home team managed to equalise.

Valladolid – turning point?

Coach Maximov can be more satisfied with finish against Valladolid in second round. Despite home lead 34:31, Russians scored three consecutive goals for final result of the match 34:34.

Medvedi had bad score with Valladolid in the past (four clear defeats from last four confrontations). No doubt, point won on Spanish soil is additional proof of their good work. With two points gained from two tough away matches (Szeged and Valladolid), Medvedi are on good way to win first position in group A. Perhaps it is too early for such speculations, but one thing is certain - victory on Thursday's match against PAOK could easily launch team of Vladimir Maximov on top of the table.

TEXT: Ivan Ambroš