Youssef El Mhajri scores six goals for Bishop’s Stortford Handball Club in national cup defeat to Poole Phoenix

Youssef El Mhajri led the way with six goals for Bishop’s Stortford Handball Club in their 24-19 national cup defeat to Poole Phoenix.

Stortford made a strong start and were 3-0 up after five minutes, but their opponents countered with some strong set pieces and, with their goalkeeper also saving three penalties, they turned things around to lead 15-10 at half time.

A second-half timeout gave Stortford renewed motivation and, having fallen eight behind, moved to within four goals of Poole.

There was a chaotic final five minutes in which nine goals were scored, but Stortford had too much to do.

Catalin Gauca claimed five goals, there were two apiece for David Diogo Robalo, Marley Smith, IK Ehigie-Obano and one each for Tsvetomir Ivanov and Alfa Bade.

Goalkeepers Lukasz Wloszczak and Henrique Silva had save percentages of 42% and 61% respectively, with the latter being named player of the match.

Anyone interested in watching handball is welcome to attend the men’s first team’s next game at the Herts and Essex Sports Centre, in Beldams Lane, on Saturday December 7 (2.30pm).