Celje Pivovarna Lasko have managed to beat NEXE Nasice 34:33 (16:17) in their first ever match in SEHA Gazprom League.  Slovenian champions did have a tough job trying to outplay highly motivated and well organized Croatian team which is full of energy after winning a big point away in Presov.

Teams were leveled throughout all 60 minutes with Luka Zvizej deciding everything scoring a decisive goal to keep all three points in Zlatorog. Blaz Janc was once again superb with nine goals (100%), Zvizej added five. On the other side, former Celje playmaker David Spiler scored seven goals.

Branko Tamse, Celje Pivovarna Lasko coach:
NEXE really are playing fast, modern handball. I am not satisfied with our defense as we’ve tried many options but none of them proved to be good. NEXE were able to cut our lead many times which is not a coincidence looking at their roster full of quality players. Anyhow, it feels good to win even when having a bad day on the court. Three points are only thing that counts in the end.

Ziga Mlakar, Celje Pivovarna Lasko player:
I want to congratulate NEXE on their performance as they were dangerous and able to stay close for all 60 minutes. They were close all the way but we’ve in the end managed to turn the match and result in our favor. Important win.

Hrvoje Horvat, NEXE coach:
Beautiful match, many goals, fast plays... Modern handball on both sides with in my opinion luckier team winning it all in the end. We’ve had our chances to secure at least a point but at the moment we’re too inexperienced to do it against a team like Celje. We’ve displayed good attitude today. We’re still making progress, getting used to each other, rising and I believe we’re not far away from the moment when we’ll be a serious opponent for anyone.  

David Spiler, NEXE player:  
There were lots of positive things today so I can say I’m satisfied. Of course, it would have been much better if we managed to reach at least a point but... We’ve already made a big step forward considering our performance so we have to be happy. We’ve played a competitive, leveld match and I’m looking forward to our next clashes as we’re really playing much better and look like a real team on the court.