VHC Šviesa-TOKS and Mistra Deliver Thrilling Draw

January 18, 2025

In a highly anticipated Baltic Handball League encounter, VHC Šviesa-TOKS and Mistra treated fans to an electrifying match that ended in a dramatic 32-32 draw. Held at SM Sostines Tauras, the match was a rollercoaster of emotions, with both teams showcasing skill, resilience, and tactical brilliance.

The game started with Mistra taking the early initiative, surging to a 2-0 lead within the opening minutes through goals from Andris Celminš and Serhii Orlovskyi. However, VHC Šviesa-TOKS quickly responded, leveling the score at 2-2, thanks to goals from Tomas Bernatavičius and Eimantas Sinkevičius.

By halftime, the home team held a slender 17-14 lead, largely due to the heroics of Skirmantas Plėta, who ended the match with a remarkable nine goals, including four from seven-meter throws. His composure and precision were vital in maintaining Šviesa-TOKS’s momentum throughout the first half.

The second half saw Mistra fight back valiantly, led by standout performances from Patrick Padjus and Andris Celminš, who each netted seven goals. Their relentless efforts, combined with crucial contributions from Serhii Orlovskyi and Martin Nerut, kept Mistra within striking distance and eventually allowed them to tie the game.

Key moments included a critical seven-meter goal by Plėta at the 22nd minute, leveling the score at 12-12, and a late-game push by Mistra, highlighted by a decisive goal from Padjus in the 44th minute to narrow Šviesa-TOKS’s lead to one.

Both teams displayed exceptional teamwork and individual brilliance. For Šviesa-TOKS, Rapolas Valadka’s seven goals were instrumental, while Mantas Urvikis added another seven, providing crucial firepower in tight situations. Mistra’s balanced attack was equally impressive, with Celminš and Padjus consistently finding the back of the net.

Defensively, both sides faced challenges containing their opponent’s offensive threats. The physicality of the game was evident, with Šarūnas Ugianskis receiving two two-minute suspensions and Mistra’s Anton Barouski also serving time off the court.

The thrilling draw mirrors the result of their previous encounter, underscoring the evenly matched nature of these two teams. Both sides will undoubtedly look to build on this performance as the league progresses.

Top Performers

• VHC Šviesa-TOKS: Skirmantas Plėta (9 goals), Rapolas Valadka (7 goals), Mantas Urvikis (7 goals).
• Mistra: Patrick Padjus (7 goals), Andris Celminš (7 goals), Serhii Orlovskyi (6 goals).