SG Flensburg-Handewitt finished in third place at the Winamax EHF Finals. On Sunday afternoon, they defeated Montpellier HB 32–30 (16–16). The SG’s top scorers were Simon Pytlick (7) and Emil Jakobsen (7/1).
There was plenty of cheering from the SG fan section before tip-off. Johannes Golla got the SG off to a strong start with two early goals in this bronze-medal rematch of last year’s final. However, a 3-1 lead was quickly erased. Niclas Kirkelökke received an early yellow card for a foul. The SG, however, remained unfazed and led for most of the game. Simon Pytlick weaved through the MHB defense like slalom poles and finished to make it 10-9. Kevin Möller made the save, and on the counterattack, Simon Pytlick extended the lead further. The SG now had the upper hand. Domen Novak scored from the right wing, and Emil Jakobsen countered to make it 14-10. Before the break, Montpellier equalized again with four consecutive counterattacks.
More energy in the closing stages
The teams entered the second 30 minutes tied at 16:16. “Flensburg, Flensburg” chants rang out around the arena. However, the SG didn’t come out of the locker room particularly well. Two successful plays by Kent Robin Tönnesen provided a new source of energy. Emil Jakobsen and Domen Novak launched a lightning-fast counterattack that made it 20:18. After 45 minutes, the score was 24:24. “Flensburg-Handewitt,” rang out from the SG-dominated section of the stands. The SG still had energy. Simon Pytlick was unstoppable on a sprint, clapped against the boards, but still managed to put the ball in the net for a 27-25 lead. Lasse Möller stepped in temporarily on the right backcourt. Johannes Golla increased the lead to 29-26. The SG now had everything under control, especially since they were ahead in the goalkeeper duel. Victory chants erupted in the SG section. Bronze was secure.
