HC Dragūnas Klaipėda Secures Convincing 35:27 Victory Over Viljandi HC

November 30, 2025

HC Dragūnas Klaipėda delivered a dominant home performance on Sunday afternoon, defeating Viljandi HC 35:27 in a decisive Baltic Handball League match. Backed by an efficient attack, a well-organized defense, and standout individual performances, Dragūnas controlled the match from the opening minutes and never allowed their Estonian opponents to close the gap.

Strong Start and Early Control

Despite both teams missing several early attempts, Viljandi’s Sten Maasalu netted the opening goal in the 2nd minute. Dragūnas quickly responded, with Lukas Juskenas equalizing from the 7-meter line, followed by two early goals from Daniil Plakhotin, setting the tone for Dragūnas’ attack.

Dragūnas Pulls Away (10–5)

Between minutes 12 and 18, Dragūnas produced a crucial 4-goal surge thanks to goals from Čėsna, Draksas, Stropus, and Saharnean, extending the lead to 10:5. Viljandi’s attempts to adjust included two timeouts and multiple changes in their defensive structure, but Dragūnas remained in control.

Penalty Efficiency from Juskenas

Dragūnas’ left-back Lukas Juskenas was exceptional from the 7-meter line, converting 6 of 7 penalty shots. His precision helped maintain Dragūnas’ steady lead as Viljandi struggled to slow down the home side.

Viljandi’s Discipline Issues

The away team suffered from several 2-minute suspensions, including infractions by Drõgin, Voika, and eventually a red card for Johannes Pertelson at 50:30, which further hampered their defensive rotations.

Second-Half Control and Finish

Dragūnas continued to build their advantage with goals from Hrnjak, Stropus, Paiva, and Plakhotin, reaching a comfortable 29:19 margin by the 47th minute.
Though Viljandi’s Maasalu and Koks continued to produce offensively, Dragūnas’ depth allowed consistent scoring until the final whistle, capped by Plakhotin’s final goal at 59:26.

Top Performers

HC Dragūnas Klaipėda

• Lukas Juskenas (#17) – 7 goals (6/7 penalties): The most efficient scorer and key attacking leader.
• Daniil Plakhotin (#33) – 6 goals: Important in building the early lead and finishing late.
• Filip Hrnjak (#94) – 5 goals: Provided stability on the wing throughout both halves.
• Karolis Stropus (#55) – 4 goals: Strong second-half impact.

Viljandi HC

• Sten Maasalu (#10) – 9 goals: Viljandi’s standout player and constant threat.
• Hendrik Koks (#9) – 6 goals (4 from play + 2 penalties): Kept Viljandi competitive in crucial moments.
• Simon Drõgin (#7) – 4 goals: Added pace and aggression but also received a key 2-minute suspension.