09.07.2011, 08:04
Men: Croatia are 2011 European Beach Handball Champions

Unbeatable host nation defeat Russia in final.

Men: Croatia are 2011 European Beach Handball Champions

After a week of exciting beach handball matches, brilliant weather conditions and a superb atmosphere, the last match of the 2011 European Beach Handball Championships – the men’s final – was played in Umag, Croatia.

Before the final Denmark secured seventh place by beating Serbia 2:0. Hungary lost the first set in the 5/6 match closely, but came back strongly in an impressive second set. The shoot-out was finally won by Hungary with a 18:16 victory and fifth place with it.

In the bronze final, the Ukrainian team lost the first set against Spain but came back strongly in the second. In the shoot-out for the bronze medal, Spain had the better ending, securing third rank.

In the final the Croatian favourites – supported by a huge home crowd – won the first set. The second set was very tight, as the Russians put more pressure on the hosting nation. Four seconds before the end, the Russians had the chance to equalise, being one point behind and one player up due to a suspension. But they did not manage to score, and the title went, like the women – to the hosts Croatia.

Final Day Results

Placement Match 7/8
Serbia vs. Denmark 0:2

Placement Match 5/6
Hungary vs. Norway 2:1

Placement Match 3/4
Ukraine vs. Spain 1:2

Final
Croatia vs. Russia 2:0

Final Standings

1. Croatia
2. Russia
3. Spain
4. Ukraine
5. Hungary
6. Norway
7. Denmark
8. Serbia
9. Turkey
10. Poland
11. Cyprus
2. FYR Macedonia
13. Greece
14. Switzerland
15. Sweden

Find all results of the 2011 Men’s European Beach Handball Championship here.

Further information

Find photos and more info on the Official Event Website
http://www.ebhc2011.com/

TEXT: EHF