14.30, Quarter-final: AN Brescia v Waspo 98 Hannover 12-5
Alessandro Bovo, coach, Brescia
“I think during the whole game we played very well in defence, that was the key today. We had many exclusions but we played our man-down well, we have good energy, good pace, controlled the game so I’m very satisfied with our performance.”
Christian Presciutti, captain, Brescia
“We went into the match strongly and concentrated, knowing fully well that is the only right way for us. They are a really strong team with excellent players. We know what we want at this F8 and it was important for us to get into our rhythm. Now we must recuperate, get our energy back and keep going for the semi-final.”
Boris, Vapnenski, player, Brescia
“We started off with determination. For us, this is the only way if we want to win no matter who we’re playing against. It was also important for us to get our rhythm. The 1st match is always the hardest. I think we managed to save enough energy for tomorrow. I was already asked who would we prefer but all I can say that of course it’s always more difficult playing against the home team. Having said that I come from Belgrade and wish them well too.”
Karsten Seehafer, coach, Hannover
“Our offence was down during the whole game, we were missing our man-ups in succession. Brescia played well, aggressively, they kept us under pressure during the whole game at each position, almost everywhere in the pool and we had to even fight to have fouls. They were the better team, no doubt, so I congratulate them.”
Marko Macan, player, Hannover
“I am angry at myself first and foremost. Brescia fully deserved today’s win. They are a top team. They started off strongly, I mean just days ago they were playing the final series against Recco in Italy. For us, to be able to beat a team like that, we need to be at our 120% and today we were far from it. We are all to blame for missing this opportunity. Last year we were 6th so we must keep our head up and try to make a step further no matrer who comes. We’ve been together for almost two years now and it’s a shame that we couldn’t capitalise on that better today.”
Matija Brguljan, player, Hannover
“I am not satisfied with myself or the team in general. Brescia played a fair game and fully deserved to win. They were better today. I really thought that we could be competetive but we simply didn“t deserve to win today. I think we didn’t play nor prepared for this match in the best way.”