07 Aug 2013

Italy wins hard-fought friendly over Catalunya

For the second straight year Catalunya played in a friendly preceding an EBSL stage in Torredembarra

The Italians played a very complete game in defeating the National team of Catalunya in Torredembarra, 5-8. Catalunya played in a similar match last year against England when Torredembarra hosted an EBSL regular stage event. This year Torredembarra is the sight of the EBSL Superfinal and Promotion final. Last year the result was different. Catalunya won. This year was different but the Catalan side played an exciting match and looked ready for the challenge. The Italian side seemed to wear down the Catalans though as the second and third periods belonged exclusively to Italy.

The first period was electric as both teams energized by the crowd and their own ambition to win. The first team to score was Italy, only a few minutes into the period, but not a minute later Catalunya responded with a goal of their own to even the score at 1-1. The Italians came right back and scored in the same minute to take a 2-1 lead into the 2nd frame. The second period was an exciting combination of defense and exciting offensive attacks. Italy struck first in that 2nd leg to take a two goal lead, 3-1. The Catalan side, encouraged by their home crowd scored quickly after the Italian goal to keep the score close, 3-2. The Italians, to their credit, did not falter when Catalunya continued to storm back. The Italians closed out the period by scoring another three goals.

The final period began with a score of 2-6, advantage Italy. The Catalans did not seem happy just playing against one of the worlds´ best teams, they were determined to match them step for step. The final period saw Catalunya score early after many exciting runs that did not end in goals. Catalunya was within three goals early in the period at 6-3. Unfortunately for the Reyes-steered side, Italy was too powerful and experienced and it showed late in the game. The Italians added two more goals but so did the hosts. Both sides looked strong and closed out the game on a high note, when the final buzzer sounded, the Italians had won 8-5.

The 8-5win gives Italy a welcome boost of confidence heading into their EBSL Superfinal play which begins on Thursday. Catalunya showed grit and a very exciting style of play that will only improve for this young team.

Goals: 0-1: Di Tulio, min. 8 (1); 1-1: Morros, min 7 (1); 1-2: Di Tulio, min. 7 (1); 1-3: Palmacci, min. 10 (2); 2-3: Pares, min. 9 (2); 2-4: Gori, min. 6 (2); 2-5: Marrucci, min. 4 (2); 2-6: Palmacci, min. 1 (2); 3-6: Frutos, min. 9 (3); 3-7: Marrucci, min. 6 (3); 4-7: Morros, min. 2 (3); 4-8: Gori, min. 1 (3). 5-8: Morros, min. 1 (3).