Tension, trust, and togetherness; GZC Donk wins with character as a team over Roma
In a thrilling first Champions League match, the ladies of GZC Donk managed to defeat Roma yesterday afternoon in a penalty shootout after a draw in regular playing time (14-14). The team from Gouda kept their cool and secured the victory. The final score was 20-19. Period scores: 4-2, 8-6, 10-9, 14-14, 20-19.
Playing to their strengths and enjoying the game
In a magnificent atmosphere at the Groenhovenbad, the home team controlled and dictated a large part of the game. The ladies made a strong start with a beautifully executed combination by Maartje Keuning. The score was doubled by a superb lob from Marit van der Weijden followed by Sabrina van der Sloot bringing the team to 3-0. The comfortable lead symbolized the confidence, courage, and joy with which Erik Brugue's team played.
Van der Weijden on the start of the game. ''We had a flying start, it was very beautiful that everything we intended came to fruition.''
Also, in the second quarter, the women from Gouda played confidently against the tough Italian women. Captain Debby Willemsz's team paid no heed to the fierceness of the Italian visitors and continued playing their own game, extending their lead to 7-2. In the last two minutes of the third period, Roma pushed back, with Sara Centanni and Izabela Chiappini bringing the team within four goals.
Determination leads to a stellar comeback
Both teams gave each other little space, resulting in an intense battle. The Gouda team saw the Italians become stronger and more dominant, facing a less smooth period for the home team as Roma sensed an opportunity. In the fourth period, the fierce opponents equalized (10-10) and quickly turned the tables to take an 11-14 lead. It served as a wake-up call for the Gouda women, and while the crowd rallied behind the team, coach Erik Brugue's squad demonstrated their mettle.
With a brilliant comeback, and despite the Roman women trying to maintain possession, the excellent-playing Sevenich secured a penalty in the final seconds, converted by Van der Sloot. After scoring six penalties in the shootout, the strong goalkeeper Sarah Buis saved Roma's sixth, sealing GZC Donk's first Champions League win. Coach Brugue reflects on an extraordinary first group stage match.
‘’It was a crazy game, but I am very happy and proud of my team. The character they showed at the end of the match, in a very difficult phase of the game, is commendable. It is rare to win a match when you are three goals behind and with so little playing time left. I am sure this match will further unite us as a team; we will continue working together to develop the team further.’’
Van der Weijden echoes her coach. ‘’To win in this manner is fantastic. We have a great balance in the team, we really did it together.’’
Goal scorers in regular playing time: Sabrina Van der Sloot (5), Maartje Keuning (3), Marit van der Weijden, Brigitte Sleeking, Vivan Sevenich (All 2).
Goals in the penalty shootout: Sabrina van der Sloot (2), Sabine Bergsma, Saskia Vos, Maartje Keuning, and Marit van der Weijden (All 1).
On 9th November, GZC Donk will visit Olympiakos. The complete Champions League schedule can be found via this link. On 16th November, the women will play against ZVL-1886 in the Dutch Eredivisie.
Watch the extended highlights, produced by Mark Honsbeek. A selection of match photos captured by Maarten Knol can be found on the KNZB image bank. The album will be updated throughout the day.
