After winning the three-country tournament, Germany’s handball players jumped across the floor in a cheering circle by beating Poland 32:30 (18:17). Thanks to another convincing performance, the team of national coach Markus Gaugisch was able to celebrate the second victory and a perfect start to the World Cup year after the 26:20 at the start against Hungary.
“These were great events where we advertised. If you then win, it’s all the better,” said Gaugisch. The DHB selection got a lot of tailwind for the World Cup playoffs in April against the blatant outsiders Greece. “We’re going in there as favorites and of course we want to qualify for the World Cup,” stressed captain Emily Bölk.
In front of 2622 spectators in Heidelberg on Sunday, backcourt players Julia Maidhof with seven goals and Annika Lott (6) were the best throwers for the German team. “Julia had good movements and scored. Annika confirmed her form, which she shows nationally and internationally at Thüringer HC,” praised the national coach.
Grijseels was rested
The loss of co-captain Alina Grijseels, who was the best scorer in the opening win against Hungary with six goals, was therefore not significant. The Borussia Dortmund backcourt player was rested due to a thigh injury, but was well represented by Lott. “It’s good for us that we’re even more variable in the backcourt. That makes it harder for every opponent,” said Bölk.
In addition, Isabell Roch moved into the squad as a second goalkeeper for Sarah Wachter and also offered a convincing performance in the second half.
As with the narrow victory at the European Championships last November, the Poles, who had previously also landed a win against Hungary, were expected to be uncomfortable opponents. “Poland were really strong,” said Gaugisch. “They have fantastic defenders who we didn’t bother vigorously enough in the first half.”
Increase after the half-time break
After six minutes, the DHB selection was three goals behind at 3:6, but then caught up and took the lead in the middle of the first half (10:9). However, the EM seventh was not able to break away until the break.
The Gaugisch protégés only managed to do this after the change. At 24:19 (40 th ) the cushion was five goals for the first time. The DHB team drew on this until the end and was bid farewell by the fans with ovations. “It was our goal to end the week on a positive note,” said Bölk. “I’m happy that we managed to win twice.”
