Champions League Men | 27 Jan 2014

Hennebont tests UMMC power

After 3:2 home win against UMMC in first quarter-final leg of 2013/14 Men’s ECL, Hennebont is not underdog anymore, so it will be interesting to see the rematch to be held this Tuesday at Verkhnaya Pyshma (January 28^th, 14h00 CET). Each Hennebont`s player took one point – Kalinikos KREANGA, Dmitrij PROKOPCOV and CHEN Chien-An, while Jun MIZUTANI brought both wins for Russian champion. UMMC`s coach Tatiana KUTERGINA praised his ability to stay in the focus despite having not much time to adapt on different time zone.

“Jun MIZUTANI played in Japan where he became a national champion. He came through several time zones, but managed to win his games at France. He showed what kind of professional he is”, said Tatiana KUTERGINA who also praised Hennebont`s performance and hospitality: “Hennebont team is very good and professional, also there were really good fans, they helped their team a lot, but also were very attentive and kind to us”.

Dmitrij PROKOPCOV beat Alexander SHIBAEV in decisive match of first clash. But, Russian helped him a lot. After 2:0 lead for Czech player, guest lost his nerves and was punished by referee for his unsporting behavior (11:0 for the host in 3^rd set). KUTERGINA says that there is no excuse for this. However, she believes that her side is able to win 3:1 or more and invites UMMC`s fans (the club announced on its website that the entrance will be free).

Hennebont`s coach and manager Boris ABRAHAM emphasizes good play of all his players and believes that they can beat Russian champion even on their soil.

The winner plays in the MECL semis against the winning team in the game between Orenburg and Borussia (Russian club won 1st leg 3:0 at Dusseldorf, remacth is on January 31st).

Alex MILETIC, EWT, Alex MILETIC, EWT