Thriller: ZRHK TENAX Dobele Edges Out Põlva Serviti in a Nail-Biting 28-27 Victory

February 22, 2025

In a gripping contest at Dobeles Sporta Centrs, ZRHK TENAX Dobele edged out Põlva Serviti with a narrow 28:27 victory in the Baltic Handball League. The match, marked by intense action and dramatic lead changes, saw the home team secure a last-minute win in front of an enthusiastic crowd.

Match Summary

The game was tightly contested from start to finish, with both teams demonstrating remarkable resilience. At halftime, the score was level at 14:14, reflecting the balanced nature of the encounter. Neither side managed to establish a commanding lead, with every attack being met by equally strong defensive efforts.

ZRHK TENAX Dobele showcased superior offensive execution in the closing moments, with crucial goals from their top performers helping them secure back-to-back victories against Põlva Serviti by the same scoreline (28:27).

Key Moments

• First Half: Põlva Serviti struck first with an early goal from Tõnis Kase, but Antons Šuleiko quickly equalized for ZRHK TENAX Dobele. The teams exchanged goals in rapid succession, maintaining a neck-and-neck battle. Notable performances from Nils Kreicbergs and Ņikita Pančenko kept Dobele in the fight.
• Second Half: The intensity heightened as both teams pushed aggressively for the lead. Põlva Serviti briefly took control with a two-goal advantage at 16:18, courtesy of Kermo Saksing and Tõnis Kase. However, ZRHK TENAX Dobele responded with a relentless offensive surge, with Kreicbergs, Krūmiņš, and Pančenko leading the charge to regain the upper hand.
• Final Minutes: With the score tied at 27:27 in the dying moments, a decisive goal from Kristers Plūme sealed the victory for the home side, sending the crowd into jubilation.

Top Performers

ZRHK TENAX Dobele:

• Ņikita Pančenko: 7 goals, 1/1 from seven meters
• Nils Kreicbergs: 6 goals, key playmaker in critical moments
• Kārlis Krūmiņš: 5 goals, strong defensive contribution
• Rīčards Juzups: 3 goals, crucial in second-half push

Põlva Serviti:

• Hendrik Varul: 6 goals, consistent threat throughout
• Kermo Saksing: 4 goals, vital in keeping Serviti in the game
• Tõnis Kase: 4 goals, dynamic attacking presence
• Jürgen Rooba: 4 goals, including a key seven-meter strike

Tomorrow, Tenax will face Viljandi in a crucial match where they must secure a victory to guarantee their spot. However, they previously suffered a 25-22 defeat against Viljandi, making this an intense challenge. At the same time, Põlva will go up against ASK Zemessardze/RSU, the current last-place holders. A win is essential for Tenax and Põlva to maintain their chances of automatic qualification for the Final 4 semi-finals. Both matches hold significant stakes, promising an exciting day of handball action.