Ludwigsburg HB is fast approaching a repeat of the Bundesliga triumph, albeit under a different club name. The table number one got the better of Thüringer HC on away ground and secured the first phase of the championship.
The only hope of THC on third place was to reduce the distance. But Ludwigsburg kept the momentum that allowed the reigning champion some smooth sailing and achieved win number 18 of 19 league games.
The task itself was tough, THC wouldn’t give up despite being four goals down in the second half. Jenny Carlson and Xenia Smits active back court presence was required, plus Antje Döll´s penalty skills to definitely decide the game at a late stage.
After all, Ludwigsburg didn’t only have Thüring to compete with. The home crowd also put pressure and there was no celebration on behalf of the audience.
– You’re great fans for the THC, you create a fantastic atmosphere. It’s always difficult to play here. But you also have to have a bit of respect. Giving us the finger is not part of our sport, said Xenia Smits in an interview in the arena according to Ludwigsburg´s webpage.
With three games remaining, Ludwigsburg was crowned champion of the regular season. Dortmund and THC, both seven points behind at the moment will seek revenge in the new play-off format.
Thüringer HC–Ludwigsburg HB 22–23 (11–13)