Metalurg’s youth has almost managed to surprise favorized Veszprem in Skopje although the final result was big +5 (27:22) for guests. Metalurg were able to keep up with Veszprem through the whole first half with Momir Ilić’ 7-meter shot giving guests slight advantage ahead of the second half (13:12). In the beginning of the second half Hungarian champions have ‘woken up’ making 6:1 run and reaching 19:13 with 20 minutes left to play. From that moment on it was clear that points will not stay in Macedonia.

The best player of the match was Roland Mikler with 19 saves (three penalties), while Momir Ilić scored 8 times. In Metalurg Renato Vugrinec scored 6 goals. This was Veszprem’s eleventh victory from as much matches which means they are currently on League’s top with 33 points. Metalurg remain sixth with 11.

Lino Červar, Metalurg’s coach

Congratulations to Veszprem, I wish them all the best in SEHA GSS, as well as in Champions League. It was a great match tonight. I am not used to praise my team after losing, but considering the situation we’re currently experiencing I have to say they were amazing. We’ve proved that we’re still alive and that all we need is a little help.

Borjan Madžovski, Metalurg’s player

It was up to us to show that we know how to play and how to fight. We’ve followed all coach’ advices and this was a good match for us. Veszprem have really played good today and it is great for us younger players to be able to face such great players. I believe it is very important for our development.  

Carlos Ortega, Veszprem’s coach

When you play in Skopje, it is always difficult no matter against Vardar or Metalurg. In the first half we didn’t have counter attacks, and our defense wasn’t at the highest level, but in the second half we’ve managed to break Metalurg’s resistance. This was an important win, team is already a bit tired and it is great we’ve managed to take these three points.

Momir Ilić, Veszprem’s player

It is always difficult to play in Skopje. We knew that it is going to be difficult, because in their team there are still those 4-5 players who are key players for them. However, we’ve in the end managed to reach the victory, mainly thanks to our great defence and Mikler’s saves.