The two Spanish CL contenders won their weekend league games as they prepare for the semi-finals.
Spanish Semi-finalists Won in the Asobal
Last weekend was successful for Portland and Valladolid in the Spanish competitions. Equisoain’s team won in Granollers 26-28 on a difficult court, while Pastor’s squad fought hard to win 32-29 in Antequera. With their victories both teams are still fighting for their respective objectives in the Asobal. Portland are leading the table with a point of advantage followed by Ciudad Real; Valladolid are trying to reach fourth position.
Svensson in form
Portland had a very difficult first half. They looked sure to win all the time, but it was a 14-14 draw at halftime. A very good performance from the Swedish goalkeeper Svensson and the goals of Lozano, Vugrinec, Andorinho and Rocas allowed Portland to gain significant advantage and the rest of the match was without suffering. In the last minutes, Granollers tried to clinch the victory, but San Antonio kept calm and finally won by two goals.
Kjelling could not play because of a muscle injury. The Norwegian player had a rest to recover for the match on Sunday against Kiel. However, the team of Pamplona must still play another Asobal game before the CL clash. The opponent will be a strong one: CAI Aragon will visit the UPNA Pavilion on Tuesday at 20.30 hrs.
Valladolid fought hard for the victory against Antequera
BM Valladolid fans expected an easy match against Antequera, but the reality was different. Three goals were the difference between the CL semi-finalist and the second team from the bottom of the Asobal table.
Valladolid had to spare some energy for the coming games, while Antequera badly needed the points to avoid relegation.
With the victory Valladolid are still going for the fourth place that might take them to the Champions League next season as well.
Ademar have three points of advantage respect to Valladolid and the next match will not be easy at all. The CL contenders visit Barcelona’s Palau Blaugrana and then they travel to Flensburg for the CL semi-final.
It is no exaggeration to say that this week will be very important for the future of the club. The last match before meeting Flensburg will be on Tuesday at 20.30 hrs.
TEXT:
Fernando Urra Goñi