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FIVERS refrain from protesting: fairness is guaranteed in the HLA semi-finals!
In the HLA semi-finals, Hard won against FIVERS 52:51, despite breaking the rules on the seven-meter throw. FIVERS refrain from protesting for fairness.
FIVERS refrain from protesting: fairness is guaranteed in the HLA semi-finals!
On May 21, 2025, the semi-final game of the HLA MEISTERLIGA between HC FIVERS WAT Margareten and ALPLA HC Hard took place, which ended dramatically. Hard won the game 52:51 after two overtimes, but the result was overshadowed by a crucial violation. According to the implementing regulations, the seven-meter throw should not have been repeated again with five shooters per team. Instead, a continuous mode should have been used, in which a maximum of five already deployed or newly designated shooters could be used. However, this was done incorrectly by the match officials in charge, resulting in a second full round, which Hard won 4-3, as vol.at reports.
The HC FIVERS WAT Margareten, which had initially announced an official protest against the scoring of the game, ultimately decided not to do so. In a statement it was said that they do not want to win at the green table, but through sporting performance on the field. The club wanted to set an example for fairness, especially for young people and future generations of handball players. This was also emphasized by ÖHB President Markus Plazer, who apologized for the human error of the match officials and emphasized the sportsmanship of the FIVERS, who made a fair decision in this difficult situation.
Violation of the rules and its consequences
After the first round of the seven-meter throw the score was 48:48. The error in the execution of the seven-meter throw was immediately acknowledged, but the protest by HC FIVERS should have been submitted to the ÖHB by May 21st. This was also emphasized by the National Handball Association. It follows that the game cannot be replayed under the circumstances, maintaining the score of 52:51 for Hard. The association also announced that it would examine measures to prevent similar incidents. This means that in the interests of fairness and integrity of the competition, such rule violations should be consistently avoided in the future, as oehb.at explains.
The HC FIVERS decision can also be seen in the context of fairness in handball, which is considered a cornerstone of the sport. According to vereinlist.de, equal opportunities and sportsmanship are central to strengthening the image of clubs and attracting sponsors. With their decision, FIVERS have shown that they are aware of their responsibility towards their players and the future of handball. This perspective is particularly important given the challenges clubs face, such as pressure on coaches and players.
The HLA MEISTERLIGA and the associated institutions face the challenge of avoiding such incidents in the future while at the same time ensuring a fair competitive environment. It remains to be seen how the measures taken will work and what impact they will have on the upcoming final series.