University of Liverpool Men’s handball team narrowly beat LJMU 22-21 in an enthralling encounter at the LJMU sports centre.
The atmosphere was buzzing with lots of students from both Universities flocking to the newly built centre to support the teams.
The crowd was clearly in favour of John Moores as the home team, however it was UOL who made the stronger start.
They took the lead early on, and despite LJMU immediately equalizing, UOL kept up their momentum and established a six goal lead between the teams.
Uni of Liverpool’s goalkeeper was also in fine form, making some great saves from LJMU’s attempts.
At half time the score was 12-8 to UOL, who had the majority of the play throughout and looked good value for their lead.
A change was needed from LJMU if they were going to get anything out the game.
In the second half, John Moore’s improved significantly and managed to get a rhythm going in their play.
They levelled the game for the time at 16-16 with 10 minutes to go.
It was game on at the LJMU Sports Centre.
There was nothing to separate the teams in the last 10, with both playing free flowing, attacking Handball and scoring at either end.
Then in the last minute, with the game tied at 21-21, Daniel Illini, who opened the scoring popped up again to score the winner.
It was heartbreak for LJMU but scenes of Pandemonium for UOL, who celebrated wildly at the end.
Matchwinner Illini said after: “It was a very close game, we only won by one, but we kept calm and gave everything we had.
“I am very happy with my performance, today was one of my best games.”
Rory, who plays for LJMU, said: “We played well, it’s always close between us and Uni of.
“I can’t knock the effort the lads put in, I’m proud of the team.”
