07.01.2014, 05:39
Serbia going to Denmark on a high note

EHF EURO COUNTDOWN: The 2012 runners-up win their warm-up games ahead of this January’s championship

Serbia going to Denmark on a high note

Sweet victories against neighbours Montenegro and FYR Macedonia have boosted Serbia’s confidence ahead of the EHF EURO 2014, where they face a tough task to emulate the success of two years ago when they won the silver medal on home court.

The Serbians first brushed aside Montenegro 32:25 thanks to nine goals from right back Marko Vujin, six by left wing Ivan Nikcevic and four by playmaker Petar Nenadic, while they overcame a six-goal deficit against the Macedonians to edge them 30:28 in Skopje.

The free-scoring trio was instrumental again as Vujin, Nikcevic and Nenadic netted seven goals each to down the tournament hosts and give Serbia’s fans plenty to look forward to ahead of challenging preliminary round group matches against France, Poland and Russia.

Prior to the three-team warm-up event in the Macedonian capital, Serbia coach Vladan Matic and several players delivered a press conference where they highlighted the squad’s expectations.

“We will try to represent Serbia in the best possible way and I think we have a good chance of doing well because the team atmosphere is outstanding,” Matic told reporters.

“We can only expect a good result in Denmark if every individual plays at the top of his limits while they must all render their individual qualities to a flowing team effort. 

“We have a duty to at least try to emulate the 2012 runners-up finish in Belgrade. In order to achieve that we must stay humble after winning and keep our heads up if we lose,” he said.

Vujin acknowledged that reaching the Main Round would be a mountain to climb for the Serbians.

“It’s the toughest preliminary stage group in the tournament. We have a fair chance if we navigate it successfully, but I don’t want to make any unrealistic promises, even though I am optimistic,” Vujin said.

Nenadic added: “There are always at least six or seven teams who figure as genuine contenders for a podium finish. We have to keep our feet firmly on the ground, roll up our sleeves and get down to hard work.” 

TEXT: Zoran Milosavljevic / cor