Promotion thriller: HCOB needs home magic against Rostock for victory!

Promotion thriller: HCOB needs home magic against Rostock for victory!

The tension in handball is increasing because the decisive second leg between HC Oppenweiler/Backnang (HCOB) and HC Empor Rostock is on Sunday evening. After a narrow defeat of 26:27 in the first leg, those responsible at the HCOB now see the situation as almost new. Coach Stephan Just is confident that his team can provide the necessary impetus to emerge victorious from the Murrtal Arena, where the hall is practically sold out. In this second leg, the HCOB needs a win by two goals in order to qualify for the final for promotion to the 2nd Bundesliga.

With self-confidence and the support of their own fans, the team wants to compete against Rostock, who have a lot of experience in promotion rounds. Andersson, the assistant coach, emphasized that not much will change in terms of handball. Instead, the focus is on mental strength and concentration in order to master the coming challenges in the best possible way. Backcourt player Nick Fröhlich, who rated the first leg as very balanced, still sees room for improvement and firmly believes in his own abilities. Goalkeeper Janis Boieck emphasizes that the home game represents a good starting position despite being one goal behind.

The path to advancement

In the first leg, which was characterized by great intensity, the HCOB was behind 13:14 at halftime. Despite a 7:5 lead in the 14th minute, the team was unable to extend their lead any further. The HCOB had the last lead at 10:9. The offensive was not completely convincing because the exploitation of opportunities was inadequate. However, the goalkeeper Janis Boieck played a decisive role in ensuring that the defeat was not worse with numerous saves.

With a draw, Empor Rostock would be assured of promotion, a win with just one goal would decide the away goals. The two coaches want to optimally prepare their team for the opponent without delving into tactical details. Left winger Nils Eilers and pivot Markus Dangers emphasize the importance of fighting spirit and a solid transition game in order to be able to survive against Rostock's strong attackers.

Expectations and obstacles

The anticipation for the second leg is growing, because the Murrtal Arena will become a decisive factor for the HCOB thanks to the home advantage and the support of the fans. Coach Just highlights the significant differences that a full hall makes compared to an empty hall. The coach firmly believes that his team can provide the decisive impetus to bring about the final decision.

In the other semi-final game, TV Gelnhausen won against HC Eintracht Hildesheim 30:27. So the signs for the second leg are at an exciting level not only in Stuttgart, but also in Gelnhausen. The upcoming games promise exciting handball and exciting decisions in the 3rd league. It remains to be seen who will ultimately make it to the 2nd Bundesliga.

Particularly worth mentioning is the exciting race for promotion, which allows the teams to delve deep into the history of the sport. On Sunday we will see whether the HCOB can make up the deficit with a stirring home performance and move on to the next round. With a healthy dose of fighting spirit and solid game tactics, the fans have every reason to hope.