HC Cocks secure convincing win over Viljandi HC

January 18, 2026

HC Cocks, after yestedays defeat against Polva Serviti, continued strong in the Baltic Handball League with a solid 27–22 victory over Viljandi HC on Sunday, 18 January 2026, confirming their dominance in the season series against Viljandi after also winning the previous encounter.

Match overview

The opening minutes were marked by nervous shooting from both teams, but HC Cocks broke the deadlock early through Joona Tamminen. Viljandi HC briefly took control midway through the first half, moving ahead 4–2 and then 5–2, but HC Cocks responded with improved defensive intensity and efficient fast breaks.

Led by Calle Almander and Yury Lukyanchuk, the hosts regained momentum and built a three-goal cushion before the break, heading into half-time with a 13–11 advantage.

After the restart, HC Cocks tightened their grip on the match. Key goals from Miika Kaukoranta, Niko Hållman and Lukyanchuk extended the lead to 21–16 by the 44th minute. Despite Viljandi HC’s efforts to close the gap, including several goals from Sten Maasalu and Hendrik Koks, the visitors were unable to seriously threaten the outcome.

HC Cocks managed the final minutes calmly, maintaining control and closing out the match at 27–22.

Key moments

• HC Cocks overturned an early 2–5 deficit with a decisive scoring run in the first half
• A strong start to the second half pushed the home side’s lead to five goals
• Multiple successful seven-metre throws by Calle Almander proved crucial in key phases
• Viljandi HC missed a penalty late in the match, halting their comeback attempt

Top performers

For HC Cocks, Calle Almander was the standout performer, scoring 11 goals from 16 shots, including a perfect 4/4 from the seven-metre line. Yury Lukyanchuk delivered an excellent all-round performance with 5 goals from 5 attempts, while Joona Tamminen added 4 important goals.

On the Viljandi HC side, Sten Maasalu was the most effective scorer with 6 goals, while Hendrik Koks contributed 5 goals from open play. Ott Varik added 5 goals, including three from seven metres.