SG Flensburg-Handewitt earned a draw in the 117th regional derby. On Saturday evening, the final score at THW Kiel was 31:31 (14:18). The SG’s top scorers were Simon Pytlick (7) and Aymeric Minne (7).
Once the fog had cleared in the Merkur Ostseehalle, it became apparent that the SG had started with the same lineup as in Lübeck. Emil Bergholt earned the SG’s first lead, 3:2, from the circle. Simon Pytlick weaved past his opponents like slalom poles and extended the lead. Then the goalkeepers took center stage—for the SG, it was Benjamin Burić. The SG fans under the arena roof initially had every reason to celebrate. Aymeric Minne broke through and scored to make it 9–6. Simon Pytlick used all his cleverness and dynamism to thwart an impending time-wasting play. However, this spectacular 11–9 lead was not followed by many more strong plays from the visitors before halftime. THW Kiel now dictated the action and had built a four-goal lead by halftime.
Comeback in the Final Stages
When play resumed, the home team quickly took a 20:15 lead. The SG now had to be careful not to lose touch. Things then started to go better on offense again. Niclas Kirkeløkke shot through a gap and narrowed the gap to 18–21. With the score at 20–24, Simon Pytlick had to go to the locker room for treatment but returned to the bench shortly afterward. Simon Möller faced a penalty throw at 22–25 and saved it. Marko Grgić grabbed the rebound. However, the SG was unable to close the gap further with the ensuing positional attack. The momentum was now back with the “Zebras,” who were spurred on by their fans. At 30:25, it looked like the game was all but decided. The SG was now defending more effectively and running their offense with seven field players. The comeback began: Domen Novak cut the lead to 28:30 from the right wing. Marko Grgić thundered through to make it 30:31. Simon Möller saved Kiel’s next shot, followed by a bad pass. The SG had possession, and Marko Grgić actually tied the score. The SG initially defended the THW’s final attack well but was caught off guard just before the final whistle. The Merkur Ostseehalle erupted in celebration. After a video review, the referees called a technical foul (five steps). Now the SG celebrated earning a point. What a turnaround!
