Serb&Mont - Croatia 28-24

Split, CROATIA, December 4, 2003 (www.wwhc2003.hr) - After two easy win over Brazil and Australia, Croatia suffered a blow in a match vs. big rival Serbia and Montenegro - 24-28. Croatia failed to make advantage of the home hall in Split with 5000 of their fans, though they have entered the match very confidently. Croatia stormed to 7-2 lead thanks to superb defending of goalkeeper Barbara Stancin.

But after first 10 minutes Serbia and Montenegro managed to establish a balance and they equalized in 18th minute (8-8). Croatian top scorer in this match Marija Culjak (seven goals) scored a goal for 9-8 lead, but that was last Croatian lead in this match.

Turnover came thanks to great saves of Ana Vojcic, and although Croatia also had a good goalkeeper, their attack wasn't as adoptable as Serbo-Montenegrin was. Chance to get back into this match Croatia had in 52nd minute, when Culjak had a penalty to convert for equalize 22-22, but she missed it. With this win Serbia and Montenegro got back on track after losing to Spain on Wednesday.

Zeljko Tomac, Croatian coach: "We lost very important match, but it isn't all over yet. We have a day to rest, we must play better in next two matches. We lost this match because of our weak attack, but it is too early to give analysis."

Zoran Ivic, coach of Serbia and Montenegro: "This was a great match, and I want to congratulate all involved to great atmosphere in the hall. I thank all my players for this great win. Croatia fought in fair play style. I still believe that we, France and Croatia will go trough to the next stage"

                G   W   D   L    F-A    Pts
1. France       3   3   0   0   94- 53   6
2. Croatia      3   2   0   1   94- 65   4
3. Serb&Mont    3   2   0   1   96- 75   4
4. Spain        3   2   0   1   85- 80   4
5. Brazil       3   0   0   3   65- 92   0
6. Australia    3   0   0   3   43-112   0