20.09.2012, 08:57
RK Zaječar with a strong new squad

Serbian champions are shaping up for some tough competition

RK Zaječar with a strong new squad

For the third year in a row, the ambitious Serbian champion RK Zaječar is waiting for the Women's EHF Champions League, however, they first have to make it through the qualification matches. The EHF Cup Winners' Cup 2011/12 quarter-finalist has brought together a very strong squad which consists of some top handball names.

"We weren’t together from the beginning of the preparation period. Many newcomers came later on, but from what I can see, all the girls are satisfied.

"We had a warm welcome to the club and people here are generally mad about handball,” commented Croatian left wing Maja Zebić, who was part of the Croatian squad at the Olympic Games in London.

Zaječar had also three Spanish national team players in London – Marta Mangue, Begona Fernandez and Jessica Alonso.

”We have been together for just couple of weeks, but we all know why we are here. I think that Zaječar will qualify for the Women's EHF Champions League, but it will be extremely difficult,” continued Zebić.

Zaječar will face Russian vice-champion, Rostov Don in the second semi-final. Host team, Jolidon Cluj and Turkish champion Muratpasa will play the opening game of the tournament.

"We didn’t have a lot of opportunity to watch Rostov, but they will be in our focus this week. That is the reason why we are going to Romania a few days beforehand. We want to be able to adapt fast and get ready for the tournament.

"I know that two former Budućnost Podgorica players, Ana Djokić and Sonja Barjaktarović are playing there now. Rostov has Anna Sen in the left back position and they also have fantastic players in the wings. The Russians have a strong squad, but I hope that we are better," said Zebić.

Next to the four Olympians, RK Zaječar has improved their level with three more players – Annet Sopronyi (Itxako - Spain), Lilia Gorilska (Astrakhanocka - Russia) and Sanja Rajović (RK Knjaz Miloš).

Find more information on RK Zaječar here

TEXT: Žika Bogdanović / bc