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Joy and jubilation as Great Britain Juniors crowned IHF Trophy Europe champions

Great Britain’s Junior team have been crowned champions of the IHF Trophy Europe after an emphatic victory in Pristina. 

The under 20s side finished the tournament in Kosovo with a perfect record – winning four games out of four.

Such was the extent of their dominance, GB had already secured their tournament victory before their last game against Andorra. But that didn’t stop them taking a commanding victory in their final outing – winning 35-18. 

GB coach Zoran Lukac said: “The boys have worked so hard this year and our strong showing at this tournament is thanks to that. 

“Most important for me was that we improved more every single game and these were not easy games. We played against really strong competition so that was not easy to achieve. 

“The squad are really pleased and I think you saw that in their celebrations after the game! 

“We’ve returned home feeling very proud of ourselves and even though we still have a lot of space to improve, we will be ready for the next challenge.” 

GB’s final opponents Andorra finished fifth in the tournament, which took place last week for national teams from emerging European handball nations. 

Bulgaria proved to be GB’s closest competitors, finishing in second place. Kosovo came third, while Malta finished fourth.

Kosovo’s left back Ardin Berisha was named the tournament’s top scorer with 34 goals.  

Victory for GB means they now qualify for the Intercontinental Phase of the IHF Trophy. 

GB’s Youth (U18) side finished fourth in their respective tournament, losing 37-25 to Bulgaria in the final match.

Georgia took home the trophy with a 100% record.

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