Storhamar HB had a phenomenal week-end in Graz. The Norwegian team lifted the trophy in European League after a final win against CS Gloria 2018 BN.
Vipers Kristiansands reign in Champions League recently came to an end. Storhamar obviously continues to put Norway on the map via a superb season in the second-tier cup.
Before the title event, Gloria 2018 BN was the team to beat. They managed to sail through, 37–26 in a convincing semifinal effort versus local rival Dunarea Braila. Meanwhile, Storhamar came back from a four-goal disadvantage against Neptunes Nantes. Kristin Venn´s crucial 27–26 was the only time Storhamar led in the second half, with 30 seconds to go it was all that mattered.
Nantes captured bronze medals after penalty shoot out, 39–38. Storhamar´s fast-paced setup once again led to victory, but Gloria 2018 BN fought hard in a quality final. Anniken Obaidli (nine goals) and Kristin Venn (eight) reached another level, the Romanian team was also hindered by two red cards when Nina Bulatovic and Gnonsiane Niombla disappeared from the field.
– We played good handball since we started the competition. In the final, it was a great fight from Gloria, it was a hard match. We started well and we believed that together we can come here and win, said Storhamar coach Kenneth Gabrielsen to eurohandball.com.
CS Gloria 2018 BN–Storhamar HB 27–29 (15–14)