Mataró beat Sant Andreu to force deciding game in Spanish final

Mataró kept their title hopes alive with a 14-11 victory over Sant Andreu in the second game of the Spanish League playoff final, levelling the best-of-three series at 1-1.

After Sant Andreu won the opening game 10-8, they had the chance to seal the championship away from home. But Mataró produced a blistering start and did just enough to survive a late comeback from the reigning European champions.

The home side came out with real intensity, led by Martina Clavería and Silvia Avegno, and raced into a 6-2 lead by the end of the first quarter. Scoring six goals in one period against one of Europe’s strongest defensive sides set the tone for Mataró’s best spell of the series.

Mataró extended their advantage to 8-2 in the second quarter, putting Sant Andreu under serious pressure. However, Javi Aznar’s side began to respond before halftime, with Queralt Antón and Alice Williams reducing the deficit to 8-4.

Sant Andreu, known for their resilience and comeback ability, kept fighting after the break. But Mataró continued to find answers, with Queralt Bertrán making it 11-5 midway through the third quarter.

At 12-7 heading into the final period, Sant Andreu needed something special to complete the comeback and clinch the title. They almost found it.

A 5-0 run from the visitors completely changed the atmosphere, with Sant Andreu cutting the deficit to 12-11. Williams and Antón were central to the rally, as Mataró began to feel the pressure in front of their home supporters.

But just when the momentum had swung towards Sant Andreu, Clara Espar delivered the decisive goal for Mataró, stopping the comeback and giving the home side the breathing room they needed.

Mataró held on to win 14-11, forcing a decisive third game for the Spanish League title.