Metz Handball Overcomes Toulon in Second-Half Surge, Securing 36-24 Victory
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Metz Handball rebounded strongly from a recent defeat, dominating Toulon 36-24 in a Butagaz Énergie League match marked by a dramatic shift in momentum after halftime. The French champions, initially challenged by a determined Toulon side, showcased their depth and tactical prowess to secure a decisive win.
After a setback against Gyor, Metz Handball entered the match eager to regain their form. They were mindful of Toulon’s strong start to the season and anticipated a competitive contest. The initial stages of the game proved their assessment correct, with both teams engaging in a tightly contested battle.
A Balanced First Half
The first period unfolded as a rhythmic duel, with Toulon seizing an early advantage by establishing a fast pace. Within the first fifteen minutes, they built a four-goal lead, forcing Metz Handball coach Emmanuel Mayonnade to call a timeout (9-5, 15’).
Toulon’s goalkeeper, Zazie Samzun, proved to be a formidable obstacle for the Metz attack, making several crucial saves. While Metz’s Johanna Bundsen faced more difficulties, the team gradually narrowed the gap. A goal from Domain of Grandveau briefly gave Metz the lead (12-13, 25’).
The lead changed hands several times in the closing minutes of the half, with Louise Cavanié scoring twice for Toulon, answered by Tyra Axnér and Suzanne Wajoka for Metz. Ultimately, a seven-meter throw converted by captain Sarah Bouktit allowed Metz to enter halftime with a narrow one-goal advantage (15-16, 30’).
Metz Dominates After the Break
The second half witnessed a complete turnaround in favor of Metz Handball. Despite Toulon’s valiant resistance and a brief equalization at 19-19 around the 40th minute, Metz seized control. Led by Bouktit and a particularly impactful performance from Suzanne Wajoka, the team unleashed a devastating 11-0 run against the Varoises (19-30, 50’), effectively sealing the victory. This surge coincided with a red card issued to Joséfine Dragenberg, further compounding Toulon’s challenges.
Despite some late scores from Toulon’s Manon Chabaud, they were unable to curtail Metz’s momentum. Goals from Lylou Borg and Laura Godard underscored Metz’s collective superiority. The final score of 36-24 reflected a one-sided second half, highlighting the depth of Metz’s bench and their ability to control the tempo of the game.
Key Statistics
Toulon Métropole Var Handball:
Zazie Samson (15 saves on 38 shots), Julianna Munooa (1/10). Manon Chabaud (3 goals in 3 attempts), Kyncia-Laura Pastour (0/1), Louise Cavanié (4/5), Alya Sow (1/1), Eva Giustiniani (0/0), Mathilde Cayez (1/3), Stankiewicz (1/3).
Metz Handball:
Johanna Bundsen (7 saves on 26 shots), Sabrina Novotna (0/2). Laura Godard (1 goal in 1 attempt), Tyra Axner (2/4), Suzanne Wajoka (10/11), Anne Albec (0/3), Anne Augustine (2/4), Xenia Smits (0/1), What is I (0/2), Lylou Borg (3/6).
The victory underscores Metz Handball’s resilience and their ability to adapt and overcome challenges, solidifying their position as a leading force in the Butagaz Énergie League.
[Photo credit: Matthieu Henkinet/Let’s Go Metz]
