With two initial victories, Skara had set its sights on the SM gold – the first in the association's history. But when the bag was to be tied up – in front of a home audience ready for a party – it was instead Sävehof that took a narrow victory earlier in the week.
On Thursday, Skara got a new chance and this time it went better. Even though it became quite dramatic in Partille Arena during a final that was decided only in overtime.
In the end, Skara won with 31–28.
I'm so damn grateful and proud of my team that steps forward. Emma Gyltman, ten goals today... Well, we dare to win. In overtime, I think we're brave. I'm in shock, I think, says Skara's Sofia Berndtsson, who is ending her career after the SM gold.
"Release all brakes"
The first half became a story as even and swinging.
During a goal-scarce start – filled with several technical mistakes and saved shots – it was the lilac-clad Skara that pulled away to an early lead. Then the teams took turns taking the initiative – and lose it.
At halftime, the score was 10–9 to Sävehof after Thea Stankiewicz had given Sävehof the lead at the end of the first half.
We haven't said much else than that we should make a better effort than we did in the previous match, said Skara's goalkeeper Isabella Mouratidou to Handbollsligan Live during the break.
It means that we have to stick to what we're supposed to do and release all brakes.
Forced to take a timeout
Some released brakes were not noticeable, however.
At least not for the western Swedes who quickly let in three straight goals, which forced coach Rasmus Overby to take a timeout.
It had an effect.
Isabella Mouratidou closed her case at the same time as Melanie Felber and Linnea Säreborn stood for important points forward. Suddenly, Skara was ahead and had a scent of gold.
Then Sävehof came back – and got to an overtime. Where Skara was strongest and thus won the final series with 3–1.
It's so much bigger than just the trophy. It's all the people in a small association in a small town who work so hard every day, says Skara's Linnea Säreborn to Handbollsligan Live.
