In a crucial match that could shape the outcome of the SBbet Prva Liga for handball, Lovćen has moved significantly closer to defending their title. The team, coached by Filip Popović, secured a hard-fought victory against Budućnost Podgorica, winning 30-26. This result follows their earlier success against Budvanska Rivijera, where they triumphed 31-27.
Lovćen’s latest win places them two points ahead of Budvanska Rivijera and four points clear of Budućnost, who have played one match more. This outcome effectively sidelines Budućnost from the championship race, as points will carry over into the Mini League for the title.
The match was a tense encounter, with Budućnost taking an early lead, going up 6-3 by the 14th minute. Lovćen responded with a run of three consecutive goals, demonstrating their resilience. The teams exchanged leads throughout the first half, with Budućnost heading into halftime with a narrow 15-11 advantage.
As the second half unfolded, the contest remained closely contested. Scores were tied at 15-15, 16-16, and 17-17, before Budućnost managed to stretch their lead to two goals on three occasions. However, in a dramatic turn of events, Lovćen seized control in the final ten minutes.
In the 50th minute, Vladimir Stanković scored two consecutive goals, granting Lovćen their first lead of the match at 22-23. Just two minutes later, Milan Popović added to the tally, extending their advantage to 23-25.
With the score at 25-26, Lovćen’s goalkeeper Vasilije Vujović made a critical save against Andrija Radovanović, which was pivotal in maintaining their lead. Following a timeout, Stanković scored again, pushing Lovćen ahead to 25-27. They solidified their dominance with a goal from Bogdan Petričević that widened the gap to three goals with just over three minutes remaining.
Budućnost struggled to find effective solutions and made several mistakes during their attempts to recover. Petričević emerged as the standout player of the match, scoring eight goals from ten attempts, which earned him the title of Player of the Match. Stanković also contributed significantly with six goals, while both Popović and Nikola Andrić netted five each. Vujović’s performance was noteworthy as he recorded 12 saves.
On the opposing side, Vuko Borilović managed to stop 14 shots, with Emir Đulović and Savo Slavuljica leading Budućnost’s scoring with seven goals each.
As the season progresses, Lovćen’s momentum appears to be building, positioning them favorably for the upcoming challenges in the league. The team will look to maintain their form as they aim for another championship title.
