Zeitz: "We are warned"
Last Sunday THW Kiel celebrated a record victory in the northern derby against SG Flensburg-Handewitt. But only minutes later, Christian Zeitz – top goal scorer of that match – was already looking ahead.
In an interview with ehfCL.com Kiel’s 30-year-old left handed back court player reflected on upcoming tasks in the VELUX EHF Champions League against KIF Kolding and on his future in Kiel.
ehfCL.com: Over the next few weeks the Last 16 and the Quarterfinals of the VELUX EHF Champions League will be played, and the VELUX EHF FINAL4 is getting closer. Are you already planning for this event?
Christian Zeitz: No, not at all. There is still a long road to travel until the four teams get to Cologne. From where we are right now it is still a long way. So right now it is forbidden to think about the event.
ehfCL.com: How do you look back on last season's VELUX EHF FINAL4?
Christian Zeitz: Of course I often think back at that weekend. We spent a nice and successful time there So it is obvious that we would like to come back this year.
ehfCL.com: Next Saturday THW Kiel will travel to Kolding. What is your opponent’s strength?
Christian Zeitz: We are aware that the Danes have a couple of individually excellent players in their squad. I would like to mention their left wing Lars Christiansen for instance. So this Last 16 match for us is anything but an easy game. Also HSV Hamburg lost in Kolding in October, last season we only drew. We are warned.
ehfCL.com: After the draw THW Kiel seemed satisfied. Do you agree with them?
Christian Zeitz: From a comfort point of view Kolding are the best opponents for us, as the travel distance is on a minimum. So it is sufficient to travel on the actual match day. From a playing strength point of view I believe that meeting the Swiss champions Kadetten Schaffhausen would have been easier for us.
ehfCL.com: This season you have performed on top, what are the reasons for that?
Christian Zeitz: Thank you. First of all, this time I could start injury-free and fit into the new season fit. And because of Kim Andersson’s injury I receive a lot of playing time on the right back position. I can feel that our coach Gislason trusts me.
ehfCL.com: Currently you prolonged your contract with THW Kiel until 2014. What were the reasons for your decision?
Christian Zeitz: I am happy to play for Kiel, as team, coaches and the environment are perfect. I can’t think of anyplace else where people "live" handball like they do in Kiel. So the decision was not hard, as I would like to continue to help with my good performance in order to celebrate many more titles together with our fans.
VELUX EHF Men’s Champions League, Last 16, First leg
Saturday, 26 March 2011, 16:15 hrs (local time)
KIF Kolding (DEN) vs. THW Kiel (GER)
TEXT:
Jan Kirschner