06.02.2011, 07:40
Andersen makes wonder debut

First loss for Budućnost in this year’s EHF Champions League campaign.

Andersen makes wonder debut

Group 1

In a tough clash, Romanian Oltchim Rm. Vâlcea stopped the long-undefeated Montenegrin side and celebrated a tight one-goal victory against their counterpart.

Highest expectations and a full Sala Sporturilor "Traian" awaited the match-up of these two fantastic clubs.

Budućnost Podgorica arrived at the Main Round with six straight victories and after ousting the reigning EHF CL champion Viborg HK. The Romanian number one team surprised the handball community by signing Danish Anja Andersen as their new coach just days before the match.

Andersen didn’t start her new association with physical training, but instead, focused on individual discussions with the players. It seems that her work has already paid off.

Even though Vâlcea’s superstar Cristina Neagu underperformed in the game, there were several other key figures who contributed much for the victory.

In goal, Talida Tolnai maintained her great performance level from the EHF EURO 2010 in December and she has proved to be an impressive replacement for the injured Paula Ungureanu.

The Turkish international Yeliz Özel led the game in an impressive manner and Valentina Ardean Elisei shined as in her best years.

On the other hand, Dragan Adžić’s Montenegrin side put in a good performance during the whole 60 minutes, and the lead changed hands several times. An exciting game developed with some fantastic moments from both sides.

Despite this, there was a surprisingly low rate of scoring, both teams being very nervous and their defences played well.

Budućnost had no luck in their last attack when they tried to equalise after Adžić placed his green card on the table. Talida Tolnai saved Katarina Bulatović’s shot and the Romanian fiesta continued.

Next weekend, ‘Andersen’s tales’ will continue in Estella, whilst Budućnost will welcome Krim Ljubljana. They really need a home victory to remain in contention for an EHF Champions League semi-final spot.

TEXT: Márk Hegedüs