Motor aim for more surprises  

There is a heightened sense of hype around Ukrainian champions Motor Zaporozhye, after their debut in the VELUX EHF Champions League ended with a surprising away draw (31:31) against the much fancied German side Rhein Neckar Lowen.

Such quality of handball from a Ukrainian team has not been shown for a long time and this performance has certainly made the rest of the competition stand up and take notice.  

The powerful back court shooting from Onufryienko (seven goals) and Ostroushko (six goals), Stochl’s confident saves, high-speed breakaways by left winger Skopintsev and arguably the best operformance of his career from home grown right winger Kubatko were the keys to a successful outcome.  

Motor coach Sergey Bebeshko was satisfied with the final score. It was first time he has started a campaign with a positive result after an away defeat with Dinamo Minsk against Fuchse Berlin (25:29) last season and a home loss to Valladolid (30:35) in the 2009/10 season.

“A few of our team made their debuts at this level, so I was slightly concerned. Fortunately, the game was a success. Despite the ending of the match we consider this draw in a positive light,” said the 45-year-old.  

     

Falimiar foes at their home away from home

Sergey Bebeshko’s side now face the prospect of their first home game against HC Croatia Osiguaranje Zagreb on Thursday. 

Bebeshko and four current Motor players (Onufryienko, Shevelev, Skopintsev, Ostroushko) took three points of four with Dinamo Minsk against Zagreb one year ago in group phase.

“I know that Zagreb have a new coach and a handful of young, but strong players. The defend mostly 6-0 and play a lovely passing offence. The performance of their goalkeeper (Stevanovic) helped them beat Celje.

“Nevertheless, we are gearing up to add two points to our tally. I know that we can do it. Especially considering the fact that for the first time in five years, a Champions League match will be held in Ukraine,” added the 1992 Olympic champion.

“After a successful start we have an even more concentrated approach to the game against Zagreb. I think the Croatian team is stronger than many might imagine.

“They have some of the best young players in Europe. For example, Mandalinich, who has a huge jump, alongside the Valcic brothers and the right winger Horvat.

“I’m expecting a tough game and yet believe that we will take the two points,” said 29-year-old newcomer Oleg Skopintsev.  

Unfortunately for Motor, they will not be making their home debut in Zaporozhye (no suitable arena), but in Kharkov (about 300 km to the east).

However, the Ukrainian champions have had plenty of time to adapt. They began preparations on Monday and expect impressive support not only from local fans, but the organised group of fans from Zaporozhye, who will be arriving in five bus loads.        

More information

HC Motor Zaporozhye vs HC Croatia Osiguranje Zagreb – live on ehfTV at 18:00hrs CET