GrIFK claim bronze after overtime thriller against debutants HC Kova

May 3, 2026

GrIFK Climbs to Second Place in Rankings Ahead of Final Tournament

GrIFK secured the Women’s Baltic Sea Handball League bronze medal after a dramatic 33:27 overtime victory against Lithuanian Panevėžio HC “Kova”.

The Finnish side made a strong start and led 14:11 at halftime after an opening half marked by fast transitions and early scoring runs from Isabel Larsson and Louise Heinonen. GrIFK built an early 5:0 lead, but HC “Kova” gradually settled into the match, responding through Simona Kolosovė and Laura Salamanavičė to stay within reach by the break.

The second half developed into a tightly balanced battle. HC “Kova” showed strong resilience in their debut season performance, repeatedly closing the gap through efficient finishing from Salamanavičė and Ieva Podolskė. GrIFK, however, maintained a narrow advantage for most of the half, but struggled to fully break away as Kova’s defense improved and forced key turnovers. In the closing stages of regular time, Kova leveled the score at 25:25, sending the match into overtime.

In the additional 10 minute period, GrIFK demonstrated superior stamina and execution. They dominated the extra time 8:2, with Larsson once again leading the offensive charge and Greta Wirén adding crucial late goals as the Finnish side pulled clear to secure the bronze medal.

Larsson finished as top scorer with 11 goals, including a perfect penalty record, while Greta Wirén contributed 5 goals. For HC “Kova”, both Kolosovė and Salamanavičė delivered standout performances with 8 goals each, underlining the team’s strong debut season despite the defeat.

GrIFK complete their campaign with a podium finish after improving from last season’s fourth place, while HC “Kova” conclude an encouraging first appearance in the competition, highlighted by their ability to push an experienced Finnish side to overtime.

Match Summary

Bronze medal match result
Panevėžio HC “Kova” vs GrIFK 27:33 (11:14, 25:25)

Top Scorers

Panevėžio HC “Kova”:

  • Simona Kolosovė – 8 goals
  • Laura Salamanavičė – 8 goals
  • Ieva Podolskė – 4 goals

GrIFK:

  • Isabel Larsson – 11 goals
  • Greta Wirén – 5 goals
  • Louise Heinonen – 4 goals
  • Sandra Laitinen – 4 goals

Photo: Evaldas Šemiotas/Lithuanian Handball Federation