Besiktas end Montpellier’s incredible winning streak
It took nine rounds to find a team in VELUX EHF Champions League Group D that could beat Montpellier HB. After eight matches in this season of Europe’s premier competition, and 20 games without defeat in all competitions, the winners of Group D were stopped by Besiktas Mogaz HT on Sunday evening.
"We wanted to give a good impression of Turkish handball. We’re happy to have scored so many goals in so many different positions. It was a good spectacle for the supporters," said Besiktas coach Mevlut Afin.
• Montpellier reach eight-match Champions League winning streak before first defeat, on Sunday evening
• Besiktas secure third place in Group D with victory in France, Montpellier top the table
• Montpellier concede most goals in two head-to-head matches against Besiktas
GROUP D
Montpellier HB (FRA) vs Besiktas Mogaz HT (TUR) 28:33 (14:19)
Against all odds, Besiktas Mogaz HT beat Montpellier 33:28 to secure third place in Group D – and Montpellier’s incredible winning run came to an end after eight victories.
An outstanding first half
The first half was the best 30 minutes Besiktas have played in their 2017/18 campaign so far. With 73% attacking efficiency, they were in full control of Montpellier. Cooperation between the back court and line player Tolga Özbahar worked well, while Mijo Tomic was on fire from the wing.
"They began the match well, winning the duels and picking up lost balls. It’s not easy for the away team to lead here, with our supporters backing us," said Montpellier captain Michael Guigou. "Besiktas resisted well, but I’m disappointed with our performance."
No slip-ups
The Turkish team scored from all positions and clearly enjoyed the game against the group winners. Montpellier recorded far too many turnovers, giving Besiktas numerous chances to increase the lead.
It was not the standard of defence usually seen from Montpellier – or the usual scoring efficiency, as the hosts missed clear chances for a result of 58%.
Döne leads Besiktas
Ramazan Döne made his usual contribution in the second half, scoring six as Besiktas put on a mature, steady performance throughout the entire game. Döne’s tally for the season is now 56 goals.
A chance for Montpellier's youngsters
Montpellier coach Patrice Canayer made the most of the opportunity to give playing time to his young squad members, who do not get the chance on a regular basis. However, it was his traditionally strong players who pulled the strings in the second half.
Without injured Melvyn Richardson, left back Jonas Truchanovicius top scored for the home side with seven goals.
TEXT: Tomas Cuncik / cg
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