On a good momentum after their victory against Valencia (30-27) last Friday, Cavigal ends the year 2020 on an excellent note with a 28 to 22 win at Billรจre. A game that was skillfully led from start to finish, securing them the 8th place in the championship. The team from Nice will return on February 5th for a home match against Saran.
The match begins at a high pace from both teams. It’s the front line with the two wingers and the pivot who stand out the most with overload gaps. By the 5th minute, the team from Nice has a three-goal lead (5-2). This is mainly due to flawless efficiency and a 7-meter penalty caused by captain Joan Boada.
On Billรจre’s side, the blue team struggles against a well-organized red and black defense. They even provoke a two-minute penalty on a decisive showdown by Manuel Crivelli. The center-back directed inside to exploit the outside gap and repeated the feat a few moments later. The opposing defense is floundering, and the number 7 has made 4 successful plays in less than 15 minutes.
At the quarter-hour mark, goalkeeper Gretar Gudjonnson deters the Billรจre right-back, who mishits his shot under pressure from the Nice goalkeeper. The Azureans are literally riding this start to the game. It is certainly one of their best match starts of the season. Moreover, the locals have hit the goal frame several times with two crossbars from counter-attacks.
At halftime, Asier Antonio’s men conclude the first half with a goal by Axel Oppedisano on a center chabala. The score is (16-11). Billรจre entered the game well but quickly lost all their means in offensive phases.
The second half mirrors the first with broad Azurean dominance. Despite a good performance from Joris Labro (goalkeeper), Billรจre is unable to be consistent. This is due to a stark lack of motivation. The red and blacks were never troubled. The team can thank Gretar, who frustrated the Pyreneans with incredible stats: a total of 17 saves at 45%.
This success allows Cavigal Nice Handball to escape the Proligue’s danger zone and secure a well-deserved 8th place.
With the 2021 World Championships taking place from January 14th to 31st, Cavigal will go on an international break for over a month. A well-earned rest considering their successful last month.
