GrIFK victorious in the Finnish derby

December 20, 2023

Women’s Baltic Sea Handball League’s year concluded with the Finnish derby, when GrIFK hosted Dicken. GrIFK took the points with a narrow 26-24 (13-10) win.

The teams had played against each other twice in the domestic league with both winning their home games. The situation remained the same also in the Baltic Sea League with GrIFK taking the advantage on their home court.

GrIFK started the game stronger managing to grab an early lead, but Dicken fought back with Emilia Siggberg leading the way with her goals in quick succession. Dicken enjoyed a brief moment in the lead before GrIFK finding the rhythm again and taking a three goal advantage to the second half.

GrIFK kept the game in their control and building up a seven goal lead. Dicken finished strong closing the gap to two goals, but it was a bit too little, a bit too late.

– A very volatile game. We had some great periods, but we lost the last 10 minutes by 2-7. Our goalkeeper Alexandra Olsson had an excellent game, GrIFK’s coach Carolina Rehnberg analysed after the match.

Olsson was also chosen as the best player of the game. GrIFK’s attack was led by Johanna Hilli, who scored seven goals.

Dicken’s coach Petri Väyrynen was disappointed with his teams mistakes, but also gave credit to his young players.

– Congratulations to GrIFK. We made too many technical mistakes. The team fought well considering their young age.

Dicken’s best player was Malena Heikkinen, who managed to get her name on the scoresheet seven times.

With the win GrIFK rose level with Dicken in the standings both having now three wins after four games.

Baltic Sea Handball League continues in mid-January with tournaments played in Latvia and Estonia. The tournament will reach its conclusion in Lithuania in March.

Standings (games played, points):
GrIFK           4                    6p
Dicken          4                    6p
Kaunas Žalgiris                  3                    4p
VMSM Sostinės tauras-VHC                  2                    4p
CASCADA – HC Garliava SM                2                    2p
Mistra           3                    2p
SK Latgols    3                    2p
Vilnius Eglė 2                    0p
REIR / Dobele SS              3                    0p

In the photo: GrIFK’s Johanna Hilli led her team to victory with seven goals. (Photo Credit: Aki Ylivarvi)