HK GIANTS vs Sun Nic Gan

Sunday 24th was the last game of the first part of the season, against Sun Nic Gan. A must win game in order to start the second part with better objectives. With, for the first time of the Giants history, as many Hong Kong player than guailo. A good sign that we are becoming attractive and wide in terms of nationalities.

Well motivated and starting in defense, the first few minutes were as usual for us, a bit difficult, both in attack and defense. After 6 minutes played, the score was 2-2 only, with many missed occasion and mistakes. 

Thankfully our opponents had the same issues and no one could lead. We then passed the second gear and played a great handball, especially in attack with many good chance and a great accuracy. After 20 minutes, the score was 11-3 for us, giving us a comfortable lead. And the last 10 minutes were of the same kind, even with a defense slowing down. A quiet and easy first half, ended on the large score of 15-6.

But as we all know, when we are good, we start playing easy and make mistakes. And that didn't miss, with a second half starting well for our opponents, thanks to our weak defense. After 7 minutes, they scored already 7 goals, coming back 3 goals behind us. Time for a time out, to try to wake up everybody. And even if we started scoring again, we didn't improve the defense and gave away many easy goals, keeping them 3 goals behind. Until the 23rd minute, game was tight, with only lucky goals from our side replying to our lack of defense.

We then had another good run of 5 minutes, putting them 6 goals behind, before playing easy again and letting them come back close. A last minute with 2 goals from our right back and we ended another difficult game on the score of 29-24.

Despite a win, we played a fantastic first half before getting pretentious and playing very bad in second half. We need to improve our fitness, in order to play same level for the whole game. And that only improve by training.

Highlight of the game, Chen, back after his injury with a nice game and 8 goals, Berry and Chris that played well on the wings and fast breaks, and all the guys that came to support.

We end the first part of the season with 4 wins and 5 losses, so we must do better in the second part, winning the same opponents and winning a few more in order to reach the top 5. Reply on December 15th with the first game against YMCA.

HK GIANTS vs Ho Kwok Pui Zhen

This Sunday 17th, after 2 wins in a row, back to the pitch against our direct opponent for the 7th place.

A long journey to the New Territories later, we were down at Tin Shui Sports Centre to play against Ho Kwok Pui Zhen. After the usual warm up and motivational speech, it was time to start.

The first minutes were quite chaotic, with a very weak defense. Despite taking out their best players, we couldn't stop their attacks and get ourselves in trouble. Thanks to an amazing Jake, we didn't give away too many goals but unfortunately didn't score either. After 20 minutes, the score was only 6-4 for our opponents and the last 10 minutes didn't see a better handball played, reaching the half time with 3 goals difference, 8-5.

It's important to note here that the 5 goals of our first half were only scored by the same player, which clearly show the problem that we're facing in attack.

Back on the pitch for the second half, we tried to motivate ourselves, knowing that 3 goals difference is nothing difficult. And after 9 minutes, we scored 4 goals to lead 9-8, sign that the half time message was passed. Until the 18th minutes, the score was really tight and each goals replying to one another. Arrived to the 23rd minutes, the game was tied, 15-15. Then Ho Kwok Pui Zhen scored a goal and for the next 5 minutes, no team could score. With an end of game completely crazy and quite stressful, we finally tied the game at the 28th minutes. With a last save from Jake and quick action, we scored the winning goal in the last seconds, leaving our opponents quite stunned and disappointed.

Globally, we played one of our worst game. Weak defense, attack even worse, without finding any solutions, we were really lucky to get away with a win. It's obvious that we need to keep working on attacks and make it more smooth.

Highlights of the game, Jake, who realized a few amazing stops, especially with his face. Eric, best scorer with 9 goals, Paul, who woke up to score our last 2 goals and all the team, that even if didn't play well, show a nice fighting spirit.

With a 3rd win in a row, we start to breathe better and feel safer, and we'll play next week the last game of the first part of the season, with hopefully, another win.

Event at the Q Deck to support victims of the typhoon

Sunday 1st December, the Q-Deck Restaurant will feature Live Bands x5 and Reverse Band with special Guest Bobby Taylor, founder of the Jackson 5, Alan Youngblood and Nevermine.
All musicians are invited to come down and Jam for the Fundraiser.

Our aim is to raise $75 000 HKD to purchase 100 tents to give shelter to 600 people.
Tents will be taken to Cebu and then to areas in need and given to those in need by senior managers and staff from our company – Great Vision Group.

On Sunday 1st December, come for the All you can eat and drink BBQ Brunch for $488HKD a head, or choose to pay $150HKD entry includes one standard drink, and $88 will go to the cause.

Cash donations welcome on the day. Donations raised over our goal go towards canned goods.
A special thank you to Craig Pallister from Everything Under The Sun.
Many thanks to Eagle Focus and Shamrock who are donating 300 rugby shirts.

HK GIANTS vs Yong Ngai

After a convincing first win, we were back on the pitch this Saturday 2nd of November in order to show that this was not a mistake. Playing the team ranked last in the league was a trap, as we might play easy and make mistakes.

Warm up and motivational speech, we were starting in defense. As expected, the first minutes were quite messy, with us defending tough but lacking of focus for a few seconds and give our opponents the chance to score. Our attack not being very successful, the first 20 minutes were a long show of failed shoots from both parts. Yong Ngai taking a time out at 5-5, probably in order to rest their players, we pushed everyone to play hard and strong and stop taking it easy.
Thankfully, the whole team heard that call and passing the 2nd gear, we scored a 8-1 in the last 10 minutes to reach the half time on the score of 13-6.

Second half started quite like the first one, with some miss and easy plays. A few mistakes and fancy miss shoots didn't allow us to increase the gap and until the 14th minutes, the difference was still of 8 goals.
But with Yong Ngai starting to feel tired and without substitutions, we finally increased that goals difference to 10 goals at 20 minutes in the second half.
The last 10 minutes showed a strong defense, that we should put up at every games, leaving our opponents not scoring even one goal.
The final whistle blew and a large second victory for us 27-12.

Besides the large score, not all was good. A few mistakes and fancy things that would put us in a dangerous situation against better team, and we must make sure that we don't give away chances to score easy goals.

Our keeper Jake made a wonderful game despite being tired of playing University game one hour before. Florian, best scorer of the game with 5 goals and a strong flu, Jack, who organized the attack very well and helped every players to score a few goals.
To be noted that it is probably the first game ever played that no Giants took a 2 minutes!

We need to keep practicing and keep this good momentum. Our 2 coming games are also must win if we want to feel safer and see the return games more relax.

Hope to see everyone at the trainings and see you next week for another, hopefully, win report.

HK GIANTS vs Tuen Mun

After a quite difficult game against I.ROBOT, lost 27-13, we were back on the pitch this Saturday 2nd of November to challenge the champion of last year's division 2, Tuen Mun.

With them losing by only 1 goal against I.ROBOT, and having some large size players, we were motivated and ready to give our best!

After another drama with the referees because of the front number of our new jerseys, we were ready to play in our beebs and turn this stupid issue into our first win.

And there it was. With a fantastic start, a very strong defense on our side, we were leading 3-0 after only 2 minutes. Attack was smooth and accurate, which never really happened so far! Our opponents were having some issue finding solutions, scoring their first goal after only 6 minutes. Thankfully for them, out attack started missing some open shoots and we let them come back on us at 5-4.
But for once, we were the one deciding to pass the 2nd gear, and in 10 minutes, scored a 7-1 to take a safe distance before the half time. With a few substitutions and time out, we ended the first half on the score of 14-6. Probably the best 30 minutes of handball we played this season.

Decided to not give away this advance and stay focus, we strengthened the defense to balance our fail and inactivity in attack. After 15 minutes in the 2nd half, the score was only 16-9 and our opponents of the day started to give up as well as getting angry.
A few 2 minutes penalty started to be given away, as well as 1 red card per team. It has to be noted that the referees managed quite well and didn't let the things go bad.
And a few minutes later and some stress, the final blow arrived, confirming our first victory of the season, 21-13.

Overall, a great game, fantastic mentality and motivation. There is always some things to improve, but we definitely see the results of the trainings. We need to keep going on, especially with 3 games coming that are must win!

Highlights of the game for Jake, our keeper, who probably stopped more than half the shoots, Eric, best scorer with 8 goals, Jack, Jens and Benoit, for their attack/defense rotation that went well!
Big thanks to all the players and supporters, for being there and playing or not, being motivated!

We have another few trainings scheduled, we hope to see everyone there to keep the momentum and continue our wins strike!

HK GIANTS vs SCAA

This Sunday October 20^th, it was time to play against SCAA, one of the most “European” team of the league, well drilled and strong, which finished 1^st runner up last season. With the return of some good players, we were confident on our chance to play well and show some nice things. Scheduled very late, we made sure that everybody was awake and ready for the fight.

After the usual 5 minutes keep warm up, we were starting in defense. And such a big difference compare to the previous games! Despite a first lucky goal for them, the defense was moving well, blocking every combination they were trying to make. Back with our 5-1 defense, we also made it really difficult and with a bit more luck, we could have had a few more fast break. Unfortunately, even if defending well, there was always a few seconds of no focus, which allowed them to score easily.

With a very offensive defense, they didn’t let us play with a normal line up, and everybody had to back up each other, running and giving solutions to the ball carrier. After 10 minutes, the score was 6-3 for them. But then, our defense became a wall, and they could only shoot at 10 meters, and not accurate. And so 10 minutes later, we were leading 9-8. With a little down before the end of the first half, we let them come back and get back one goal ahead before the rest.

Back on the pitch for the 2^nd half, we tried to keep the same dynamic. And it’s what happened. With an always strong defense, the few goals were only lucky one or fast break. The attack kept doing well, with players proposing solutions and creating movements. The score was tight for about 20 minutes, when each team replying to the other with a goal. With 1 goal lead and 9 minutes to play, SCAA decided to play normal defense at 6 meters. That took us by surprise and couldn’t adapt quickly enough. And despite a very good game, the last 5 minutes were a show of bad passing and mistakes, giving many fast breaks to our opponents. The final score of 25-19 doesn’t show how tight was the whole game, and how much we bothered them in defense.

Highlights of the game, to our keepers Tim and Jack, who realized a few incredible stops at the right time. Eric and Fabien, best scorer of the game with 7 goals each but also everyone, that really put their hearts in and gave their best.

We still have trainings coming, we need to capitalize on this good game and make sure to keep improving. We hope to see everybody at the training and get even better, especially with the coming games that are must win!

HK GIANTS vs Wai Tou

This Sunday 6^th of October, we were down at Choi Hung Road to play against Wai Tou, team that finished 3^rd of last season league.

After a first difficult game against YMCA, we were hoping to show some better things and also see the results of our trainings.

A few kits issue and a quick keeper warm up later; it was time to start with the ball. The first minutes showed a very intense defense on our side, leaving the opponents without any solutions. Unfortunately, our attack was still in lack of accuracy and despite some good chances, the ball never ended up in the net. After 7 minutes, the score was only 2-2. Then, we started playing too fast and fancy in attack and giving away a few easy fast break to our opponents and they flew away, leading 7-2 after 14 minutes. Thankfully we stopped the hemorrhage and scored 3 goals in a row to get back in the game. The 10 last minutes of the first half saw us missing a lot of easy goals in attack, and despite a good defense, some mistakes help Wai Tou to go to rest with 5 goals lead (12-7).

Back on the pitch, motivated to show that the first half was only a mistake, we scored the first goal immediately. But for some reasons, so far unknown, we stopped playing, doing mistakes after mistakes, both in attack and defense. With many fast break and easy shots, Wai Tou was leading 23-11 after 20 minutes. Not expecting much for the end of the game, we decided to try new things, use it as training. Unfortunately, it didn’t work better, as they scored a 6-2 in the last 10 minutes, reaching the final whistle on the bad score of 29-13.

Needless to say that there is not much to save from this game, many mistakes, lack of focus and terrible accuracy. We played the first half not too bad, but only to completely disappear in 2^nd half.

A few highlights though, to our keepers Jake and Jack, that stopped many shoots, Paul, JunHo and Chen, best scorer of the game with 3 goals each and Florian, for his first red card of the season. Next round on you, mate.

With a few more trainings coming, we need to practice basics and accuracy to avoid fast breaks and bad shoots. But with many new players this season, we need time to adapt to each other and no doubts we will soon get together and show our real potential.

Schedule 2013-2014

Dear Giants,

We have now the schedule for the first part of the season, until end of December.

Date	Time	Team	Location	Result
Oct 01	18:15	YMCA	Shek Kip Mei Park Sports Centre	12-27
Oct 06	17:50	Wai Tou	Choi Hung Road Handball Court	13-29
Oct 14	18:30	Yuen Long	Shek Kip Mei Park Sports Centre	17-25
Oct 20	20:55	SCAA	Shek Kip Mei Park Sports Centre	19-25
Oct 27	20:15	I.ROBOT	Choi Hung Road Handball Court	13-27
Nov 02	20:45	Tuen Mun	Shek Kip Mei Park Sports Centre	21-13
Nov 09	20:45	Yong Ngai	Sun Yat Sen Memorial Center	27-12
Nov 17	18:10	Ho Kwo Pui Zhen	Tin Shui Sports Centre	17-16
Nov 24	13:40	Sun Nic Gan	Shek Kip Mei Park Sports Centre	29-24
Dec 15	18:30	YMCA	Shek Kip Mei Park Sports Centre
Dec 22	16:50	Wai Tou	Tin Shui Sports Centre

Games may be cancelled or postponed due to the weather, and update will be send to your email address, so keep looking your email box on game's day!

We'll keep update this post as soon as we know more!

Season 2013-2014

Dear GIANTS,

After a season 2012-2013 that saw some ups and downs, we’re still in 1^st division. After long nights of brainstorming and many meetings, your committee is proud to present you a few changes for the season 2013-2014 that will definitely bring the team to an upper level, on and off the pitch.

First of all, we would like to have a word about commitment. In order to get better and improve, as a team, we need to have the players joining the trainings and social events as much as possible. The training will help to get team play and improve the basics, social events will help to bond with your teammate and make you a real figure of the HK GIANTS. This year, the Club will pay for a regular indoor training pitch, so we expect as much commitment as possible.

We know that most of us have work duty, like traveling or meeting, but we need everyone to be committed and want to improve. Attendency tracking will be done by the COMMITTEE, and in case that some players choice have to be done, the most committed will be chosen.

Also, we will keep using the Teamsnap of the team, very useful to prepare and organize the different trainings, games, events. We expect everyone to use it and set his availability as soon as the events are created. Again, if some players don’t use it, it will be to your own risks.

OBJECTIVE:

With 5 wins, 3 draws and 10 lost, the past season could be qualified as “fair”. With now the experience of 1^st division, the objective of the coming season is to reach the Top 5 and also have a positive balance of win over lost.

TRAINING:

Everybody would agree, we have very good players, but what we lack is team play. And that can only be improved by training. Last year was chaotic because of a not regular ground and also dependent on the weather.

This year, we will have regular training, every Wednesday night from 10pm to 11pm at the Kowloon Park Sports Centre, starting from November. These sessions will be focusing on team play and combinations.

Also, in December and January, we will have training (if weather’s ok) at Wan Chai Park every Tuesday from 9pm to 11pm. These sessions will be focusing on basics and fitness.

Concerning September and October, due to pitches already booked, we will manage a few solutions to get at least one training a week.

Trainings will be structured and we will perform drills, so we expect every players to arrive the pitch 10 minutes prior to the training, to make sure to make the most of it.

As we are dependent of LCSD confirmation every month, confirmation of training will be done on the beginning of each month. Also, Teamsnap will be updated regularly with coming trainings and games.

SOCIAL:

The Dog House being our sponsors this year again, we have to show more dedication to them. We will get a reduction card, so everytime you go there, you can present it to get a discount.

On Fridays night, every 2 weeks, from 8pm onwards, at The Dog House Wan Chai, will be hold a team drink. Come to see your teammates and share some time off the pitch. Needless to say that is a perfect way to bond everyone.

Regularly, a team dinner will be organized at The Dog House in TST, for different event (kits distribution, Christmas, Chinese New Year etc…).

We are also looking to organize a start of season bash, that would gather all the actors of the Handball in HK, teams, Association, sponsors etc… Your presence would be valuable, as we are the hosts and that would help the people to know each other better. Such a good occasion to party and talk more to other handball lovers. More details to be announced soon.

KITS, MEMBERSHIP AND SPONSORING:

For this new season, we signed a sponsoring with SAMURAI (which supplied us with the bags last year) and we are proud to announce that the quality is way better than what we had this year.

The kits will include home and away jersey, shorts (or pants for keeper), training top, social polo and a hoodie.

ACTIVE MEMBER: HKD1,000. It will give you access to the kits, trainings, games and every social events, as well as get the reduction card for The Dog House.

SOCIAL MEMBER: HKD350. It will give you access to the social polo, support the games and join every social events.

SAMURAI will also organize from time to time, some sales on selected products with a special discount for the team. You can have a look on the website to check, they have some nice products and the quality is really good. More explanations will be given prior to the sales.

We also would like to thanks GROSVENOR, THE DOG HOUSE, EICO and EURO WATER which are sponsoring us this season and allow us to organize the team even better.

CLUB COMMITTEE:

If you have any questions or suggestions, please contact us, we will be happy to help:

-Joakim Cimmerbeck PH: 9071 7071 Email: jcimmerbeck@gmail.com

-Mathieu Grasser PH: 9442 0275 Email: mathieu.grasser@euro-water.com

See you all very soon for our first trainings/games/social events, full of motivation and excitement. GIANTS, we have a great season ahead!

MUSCHI NAS !

September trainings

Fellow GIANTS,

A new season is about to start and we need to get back to training to make sure we achieve our objectives!

We have a few sessions in September, hopefully the rain will allow us to train!

Here's the schedule:
- Tuesday 3rd of September, from 10pm to 11pm,
- Thursday 5th of September, from 10pm to 11pm,
- Thursday 12th of September, from 10pm to 11pm,
- Tuesday 17th of September, from 10pm to 11pm,
- Friday 20th of September, from 3pm to 5pm.

Please go to Teamsnap and set your availabilities! Stay tuned also on training day, see if the weather is good or if we have to cancel!

See you all very soon on the pitch.

HKU/HK Giants

This Saturday 3rd of August was the last game of a long season 2012-2013 for the 1st division and everybody was happy to come to an end. We were playing against HKU, team that didn't win or draw any games this season.

With only 6 players on the game sheet, they were a bit short and we started wondering how this could end up for us, as an easy game or at the opposite, a tough game because we would be too relax.

After usual warm up and a motivational speech asking the guys to play 100% by respect for the other team, we were starting in defense, ready to play our last 60 minutes.

And again, as usual, our start was awful. No focus in defense, no accuracy or too much hurry in attack and after 6 minutes, playing 6 against 7, they were leading us 3-1. One time-out later, asking everybody to wake up and focus, we decided to change to a 6-0 defense. With also a few good shoots from our 9 meters players, we were back on them as soon as they get their 7th player.

With no more reason to eventually be kind, the game became tighter and every attack, for both sides, was successful with a goal. Our defense in 6-0, despite being better, was still too relax, and the guys could just run into our 9 meters and take a shoot wherever they wanted.

A few lucky actions later, we were up by 2 goals with 7 minutes to go. And on a last run, we hit the half time on the generous score of 14-12 for us. According to how we played, definitely it was lucky for us.

Trying to get the guys to focus and fight for the win during the half time, we made a few changes and were ready to start the 2nd half.

As you must guess, it was as awful as the first one, and after 5 minutes, they were up by 2 goals after a 4-0 for them. Hopefully, we started playing a bit and scored also a 4-0 in the next 5 minutes to get back our 2 goals lead. But then, the referees decided to help HKU, by giving away many 2 minutes penalty. Quite strange as we didn't have any in 40 minutes and then get 5 until the end of the game. But no need to complain again, we know the refereeing level in HK is very low, so we can't expect much and be ready for it.

So, with this nice help from the referee, HKU started slowly to come back on us and makes us nervous. With the fear or the lose against this team, we played worse, missing many shoots in attack and helping them with a very poor defense. Only a few stops from our keepers saved us from being ridiculous.

And after a last time-out and another stupid mistake in defense, we ended the game on a draw 24-24, which is really generous for us according to the game overview.

Highlights of the game, for our keepers, who made some amazing stops, good work of our back lines who scored a few important goals from 9 meters. Our wingers, despite a few miss shots at the beginning, helped to score a few goals also.

So, season is done on a not too good result. It's time now to focus on the next one, with a few new players joining us. We hope to be able to reach the top 5, and with a few things on the way to improve the organization, we have faith that we can do it. The break will be short, so hope everyone have a good rest and get fully motivated for next season!

We would like to thanks everyone in the team, players, supporters, people out of the team who helped us with training grounds etc... We hope the coming season to be better organized, both on our sides and on the Association side, as we don't need a 4 months break in the middle of the season.

Stay tuned for some good news very soon!

MUSCHI NAAASS!!

HK Giants/Ho Kwok Pui Zhen

This Tuesday 30^th night, the GIANTS were down to the pitch in Choi Hung to play against Ho Kwok Pui Zhen, important game that would decide of our ranking in first division. With 13 players on the list and a good line up, we were quite confident and ready to win. During the first part of the season, we played them and won by 6 goals so we thought we could do it again.

After a good warm up and a few shots on the keepers, we started in defense, motivated. Unfortunately, motivation was not enough and we clearly lacked of focus. The defense was horrible, letting the opponents do whatever they wanted, running and going through easily. And even when our keepers stopped the ball, we let them get it back to score.

The attack was not even better, with many miss shots and many issues to find some open positions. After 12 minutes, they were already leading 6-1 and it was time to take a time-out to try to get us focus on the game.

It didn’t change anything and it was still too easy for them to score and go through, despite changing our defense to a 6-0. A few strange refereeing decisions later with some 2 minutes penalty, we were still 5 goals behind, trying to not make it worst.

We reached the half time on the score of 10-5, quite gutted that we couldn’t score more than 5 goals in 30 minutes. After a motivational speech, we started the second half same as we ended the first one, still believing that we could make it!

And even with all the motivation, we kept giving them easy shots and missing too many in attacks. Fortunately, we scored a bit more than the first half and after 9 minutes, scored 5 goals more, when they scored 4. It was then the time for the referees to get lost. With a series of 2 minutes for us, we played almost 10 minutes at 5 and even 4 players on the pitch for 1 minute. They also liked to stop the game for 2 minutes, to discuss about things, not being able to make a simple decision, which lead everyone to space out a little bit.

At 22 minutes in the 2^nd half, we were still 5 goals behind and didn’t score for 7 minutes. A last time-out took and we decided to start playing. Showing what’s makes the GIANTS a first division team, with a fantastic team spirit, we played an unbelievable defense, with the opponents unable to find any shoots. And with some amazing attacks play, we were back on them in the last 30 seconds of the game. But as it was not stressful enough, the referees whistled a strange fault on the wing, and it was the full time, with a penalty shoot to go for Ho Kwok Pui Zhen.

Pressure was at its climax, and on a wonderful move, Wan stopped the shoot, getting a very important draw!

After a quick celebration, a powerful MUSCHI NAS, and a good speech, we were happy to be safe and have secured our seat in first division for the next season.

Highlights of the game, special attention to our 2 keepers Wan and Tim, who stopped the right ball at the right time. Score could have been much worse without them. No best scorer, but a very nice shoots, that we would like to see more often and from everyone, from Paul and Gaspard, a great team spirit, even in the worst times.

One more game to go, then we can say goodbye to 2012-2013 season and start focusing on 2013-2014 ones, with many news things coming!

Stay tuned!

Sun Nic Gan/HK Giants

This Sunday 28^th, we were down to Choi Hung pitch for a very important game. With the weather being unstable for a few days, we were looking for a cancelation and hopefully, it didn’t happen. With 10 players on the game sheet, most of them hangover of the junk the day before, we were a bit worry as that game was a must-win. Temperature being very hot, the warm up was mostly for the arms and keepers.

After our usual 5 minutes shooting practice, it was time to start again a Sun Nic Gan team that was playing to stay in top division. And the first 10 minutes really showed that they wanted it more than we did. With a defense not focus and an attack equal at itself, we were in trouble to get to score and not let them go through us too easily. Unfortunately, the score was already 7-3 after those 10 minutes.

But then, we remembered why we were here and started playing well, with good attack and stronger defense.  And in 5 minutes, we were back, leading by one goal 7-8. They then took a time-out, feeling that they were losing control and couldn’t find any solutions, which motivated us in the good way!

The rest of the first half was a bit messy, with a few miss shots on both sides but our defense helped and we were up by 3 goals at the half time, 10-13.

Time to change sides and say a few words, to keep up the good play and that it was our game, we were back fully motivated for the 2^nd half.

It started quite slowly, with only 5 goals scored in 10 minutes. Then Sun Nic Gan got a flow of motivation and scored a 4-1 in 5 minutes to come back on our heels with only 2 goals less. The time for us to take a time-out and make sure everybody was focused on the win objective.

It’s when the referees decided to make some strange decisions and whistle some out-of-nowhere 2 minutes penalty. We have to say that our opponents were really good at faking, pretending and screaming for nothing. Maybe if they were more focus on how to play rather than trying to get fouls, they would be better. We manned up and fortunately, those silly decisions didn’t have any consequences for us.

We then played slowly for the last 10 minutes, making sure we don’t give them any chances to come back. With a score of 22-17 at 6 minutes before the end of the game, we were confident, probably a bit too much. Playing slowly lead to a few turnovers, and they slowly get back on us. But with a last minute under high pressure, we finally ended and won the game 22-20.

A great relief for all of us as this win helps a lot to secure our seat in 1^st division. It’s not done yet, but we took a good option on it! We still have 2 games coming and those are 2 must-win again!

A few highlights of the game, for our old Swedes who, despite a hangover, scored 6 goals and ended up as the best scorer of the game. Romain, for his first game with the Giants, who scored 5 but also took 2 minutes stupid and forgot to not walk on the pitch during the game. Our 2 keepers, who realized some important stops and all the others that came with a hangover and gave their best for this game.

The end of season is near, we still have 2 games to go to make sure stay in 1^st division and build on it next year. 

SCAA/HK Giants

This Sunday 21^st was the time for us to play again SCAA, which beat us severely during the first part of the season. With 2 convincing games before, we were confident in our chances to play well and cause some problems to them.

After a good warm up and the usual few minutes to shoot on the keeper, we were ready to start. At this moment, we have to note that the referees of that day were completely new. In fact, the “top” referees of HK preferred to referee a youth tournament instead of the games of this Sunday, as there was too many 1^st division games and that it might be too difficult for them… No comments.

And at the opposite of the previous games, when we made a good start, this time was absolutely terrible. Lack of focus, no passing and accuracy down to 0, after 5 minutes, they were already leading 5-1 due to many fast-break. A time-out later to try to get the guys in the game, we didn’t see any improvement and after 10 minutes, the score was 9-2 for them. The defense was not as strong as usual, giving too many easy shoots and the attack couldn’t find any solutions and when it happens, we can’t put it in.

The first half was a long and painful play, not finding any solutions in attack and defense. On their side, SCAA just played right and took advantage of all the gifts we let them, which brought us to the half time on the score of 15-5.

After trying to get the guys to focus on important basics as passing and accuracy, we were on for a second half, trying to practice more than expecting from this game anymore.

Hopefully because it started the same way as the first half, with a 5-2 for them in 10 minutes. With a few strange referee’s decisions and the basics as good as a 12 years old team, some players became quite angry and made a few bad choices. The rest of the second half was same as the first one, painful and useless. We failed on every part of the game and we deserve such a severe defeat.

Final score 29-14. We did show once again what to not do in a game. We didn’t pass well, giving away too many turnovers, when we happened to find an open shoot, we couldn’t even put it in the frame and we didn’t feel the team spirit that saved us in the past games.

Not to blame anyone, but we definitely need to focus on basics, as passing and accuracy. We are good individual players, but as a team, we’re not good enough and that’s where we lose. Those points will be drilled during next training and we hope to improve this quickly.

With 3 games remaining against 3 weaker teams, we should be able to get back to win and finally secure our seat in 1^st division.

YMCA/HK Giants

After two games cancelations in a row due to the rain, we were scheduled on this Tuesday night at 19h45. Originally planned 30 minutes earlier, we had to fight with the Association, to make them understand that working people can’t make it on time. Because of some –stupid- rules from the Government or else, we had no other choice that to play that day.

Arriving at the pitch, the clouds were starting to gather and made us expect the worst. With, luckily for once, enough time to warm up, both keeper and the team, we started with the ball against YMCA.

The first minutes, were, unusually, very good, with a strong defense, helped by the miss shots of the opponents, as well as a good attack, playing easy and waiting for the best chance. After 3 minutes, the score was already 3-0 for us. Unfortunately, we couldn’t keep with the defense, and after a few shots from the wings, the score was tied. We then collected the yellow card until our first team 2 minutes. The all first half was very defensive, with slow attack and very few goals. And 5 minutes before the half time, YMCA passed the 2^nd gear and took an advantage of 2 goals, to reach the half time whistle on the score of 10-8.

There wasn’t much to say at the half time, the defense was really good besides a very few mistakes, the attack could have been better, but we were on the good way.

Back on the pitch, we fell in our usual problem, with a poor start. After 11 minutes, we were 4 goals behind and many miss shots. But then, same as the last game, we found in ourselves the mental strength we needed and scored 3 goals in a row to get back on YMCA heels. Then, the referees, crappy since the beginning of the game, became even more. Missing many obvious fouls (defender catching shooting arm, stopping the ball with his feet on purpose…) which would have brought penalty shots and a few 2 minutes, we couldn’t get back this last goal to tie the game. Our beloved Swedish, on a very basic defensive action, took a red card in the last minute. Incomprehension on our side, YMCA decided to not shoot this penalty and ended the game on the score of 17-16.

Beside the fact that we played most of the game really well, I would to draw the attention on the referees. We agree we are quite keen to complain, but when a referee, during the game, whistle things on one side but not on the other, see definitely some fouls but ask the player to take it easy, and completely change the game with their whistle, we can only complain.

The worst would be when this referee clearly admits that he forgot to whistle some obvious fouls and that he also referees differently the teams, because we, GIANTS, are stronger. This is not a normal attitude, and we can only be disappointed by the level of the top referees in HK.

Complaining done, time for the highlights of the game. Gaspard, our best scorer of the day with 4 goals and two amazing defensive actions. Wan, great keeper with a few stops of international level. Joakim, for his red card. And all of the players who came despite the difficult schedule. We showed some great stuff and we can only expects to do better for the coming games.

We have 4 last games coming, we definitely need to win 3 of them! See you all at training.

HK Giants/Yuen Long

On this Sunday 30^th of June, we were facing Yuen Long, ranked in 4^th position and that we beat during the first part of the season.

The roster was quite short but with a good line up, we were confident on our change to win again. After a good warm up and the usual 2 minutes available to warm up the keeper, we were starting with the ball, focused and motivated.

Unfortunately and quite normal for us, our first minutes were difficult, with a lack of concentration. Defense was strong but after defending for 1minute, a simple shoot from 9m would score, because of no arms up or tired. In attack, we missed too many shots even if we made some nice combinations. After 12 minutes, the score was already 7-2 for them and it was time to take a first time-out. Trying to get the guys to wake up, we scored a few more goals then, and came back 3 goals behind. But with the end of the first half coming, and not enough substitutions, we let them take back their advance to finally end up at half time on the score of 14-9 for them.

During the half time, we saw that everybody was really motivated and was believing that we could come back, even with 5 goals less. A few wise words from some players, asking to focus on the game and on the team, rather than complaining to the referee helped later in the game.

Back on the pitch, we started the second half same as the first half, not completely on the pitch, not really focus on defense and still missing too many in attacks. After 16 minutes, the score was terrible, 21-13 for Yuen Long. But it happened to kick our asses and after another time-out, we strangled them. Defense was finally strong, all along, and when they happen to find a shoot, our keepers were vigilant and realized a few great stops. In attack, taking our time and playing easy bring us a few goals with many less misses. And with the time running, and the opponents starting to scare and play badly, we were back on their feet.

After a last time-out took by Yuen Long to try to stop the hemorrhage, the last minute started on the score of 21-19. A first quick goal from us made it to 21-20. Then the stupid Frenchie got a red card for losing his temper after a foul not whistled. An act that could have cost the game. But with a final turnover and a last penalty, we ended the game on a draw, 21-21.

All the players showed great mentality and bravery, to keep believing and playing even with 8 goals behind. We can notice that the passing in attack start to be smoother and less loss of balls leading to fast break.

A few highlights, as usual. For our keepers, who were amazing all along the game, but especially in the last 15 minutes with a few stops that saved the game. Jun Ho and Jacques, best scorers of the day. Jun Ho scored all our penalty shots when Jacques made the job from 9m. Special mention to his last goal, when he probably made around 10 steps from the middle of the pitch to the 9m. And thanks to everyone for coming and keeping up the winning spirit during the whole game!

HK Giants/SCAA

After almost 4 months without any games, and quite a few training sessions cancelled due to the rain, we were back on the pitch this Sunday 26^th of May against SCAA. Actual top2 of the league, and including many players from the National team, the game was announced to be a tough fight.

With one of our best line up for a long time, and playing on a nice pitch, we were motivated to show that our recent trainings helped us!

As usual, after a quick goalie warm up and a motivational speech, we were ready to start and bring the fire!

The first 10 minutes were quite tight and the usual GIANTS problem started to show up. A very strong defense, with our opponents incapable to score on their usual combinations and only able to score on one guy skill. And in attack, lack of accuracy and too much hurry that made us waste at least 5 goals in attack.

Leading 5-2 after 10 minutes, SCAA decided to make a bigger break and make sure we couldn’t scare them. With a 7-2 in 15 minutes, our hopes in this first half were down to the lowest. And despite a few interesting combinations that helped our right side to score, we were quite out of solutions to get through or over the defense.

The half time saw us down by 8 goals, but not ready to give up even if the lack of solutions didn’t help to find the motivating words.

Back on the pitch for the 2^nd half, we finally played 5 first minutes as we always should, strong defense and rolling ball in attack which helped our left side to score. With a 4-1 to finally get back at 15-10, we were started to think that nothing is impossible and we could definitely tie the game.

But then we completely misplayed and there is nothing to save from the second half, which saw SCAA scoring 13 goals when we scored only 6. Too many balls gave away for fast break, a few mistakes in defense and accuracy even lower than in first half.

In the end, we did play a bit as we did in the recent sessions, showing some interesting things, but we’re definitely not able to keep this level over a full game. And against a well drilled team as SCAA, there’s no chance. So we can only keep training and practicing, make sure we get a few combinations together and don’t miss that much.

Thanks to the new players who played this difficult first game, Jacques, Poul and Jeff, we hope to see you soon on the pitch, thanks to all the players for coming and not giving up! And finally, thanks to our supporters and soon new members, we're looking forward to see you again!

News

No, we're not dead!

The activity of the blog have been a bit slow lately, mainly due to the fact that no games have been played since mid of January.
We will not blame the Association, which has probably a hard time finding pitch and organizing the different schedule and thanks them for cancelling the games they originally scheduled on Easter or other busy dates.

The trainings are also a bit slow in April, due to the impossibility to book a court and also the rain which doesn't help.
Hopefully, Jack keeps helping us out and propose us some friendly game that keep us up.

With 10 games to go, we are actually at the 7th place of the 1st division. The end of the season objectives is to get to the TOP5, which is completely realistic if we can play as we player our last game and during the last trainings!

Also, on Friday 26th of April, the GIANTS will gather at our sponsor place, Dog House in TST to share a few beers and mock the Parisian and Swedish.

Stay tuned for more news and see you all very soon!

March trainings

Fellow Giants, 

A few more training sessions are booked for March.

All the sessions will be held at the Wan Chai Park playground, you can find the map through this link.

- Tuesday 5th of March: 22h00 to 23h00,

- Wednesday 13th of March: 22h00 to 23h00,

- Tuesday 19th of March: 22h00 to 23h00,

- Monday 25th of March: 22h00 to 23h00.

See you all down at the pitch!

Ho Kwok Pui Zhen/HK Giants

Sunday 20^th was the 2^nd game of the 2^nd part of the season. We were playing Ho Kwok Pui Zhen, team never played before. Direct concurrent for an accession to the top 5, it was a must win game. And with 3 training sessions in the past week, we were ready to rock.

Once decided the 14 players, and few minutes to sweat, it was time to take our place on the pitch and warm up the keeper.

A few minutes later, we were starting in defense. The game plan was clear, strong defense and easy combinations in attack, sure passing. And the beginning of the game followed it perfectly. On their first attacks, our opponents can’t find any way through us and were getting closed to be punished for the time. Hopefully for them and despite our goalies’ amazing stops (penalty shoot, 9 and 6 meters shoots, we kept doing some little mistakes that helped them to score, mainly from the wings.

On the other side of the pitch, we played well, no fancy stuff or silly passing which brought us to lead by 3 goals after 15 minutes. A few substitutions later, and with a strong flopping from our opponents, we got two times 2 minutes penalty in 3 minutes. Good chance for them to get back on track and score 2 goals to be only 1 goal behind.

We spent the last 5 minutes playing easy and reach the half time on the score of 11-9. A few recommendations later, motivated to win our 4^th game of the season, we were back on the pitch. 2^nd halves are usually for us quite messy, and it’s when we lose our games.

But trainings start to show some results, and we definitely keep the game in hand, defense very strong and basic but efficient attack. After 8 minutes, we scored a 3-0 to definitely take the lead and try to kill all their hopes.  They replied by another 3-0 a few minutes later, which made us doubt. And, for the first game, we didn’t lose focus and directly scored a 5-0. It was too much for them and the last 7 minutes, despite their aggressive defense on the whole pitch, we kept our 6 goals lead until the final whistle.

We for sure, showed some nice things during this game, in attack and defense. Refereeing was a bit strange sometimes, but we are use to it and we must try to stop talking or complaining. Once again, only trainings can make us better and give us a chance to win stronger team.

Highlights of the game: for his last game with the Giants, Stefan scored 6 goals (best scorer). Our goalies Tim and Angus who stopped many shoots, Fabien who played very well despite his hole in the foot. The team spirit and the beers at the end. Thanks also to Kamil, who due to the number, couldn’t play the game but stayed and cheered for us. And Florian, who had to go out the pitch after 1 minute because he was not wearing his froggy green short!

A few trainings are planned, we need to come over and play together, improve the combinations and we can definitely win a few more games!

See you all on the pitch very soon.

HK Giants/I.ROBOT

This Sunday 13^th January was the first game of 2013 as well as the first game of the second part of the season which will see us playing one more team once again.

With a one month break without handball, a few kilos due to Christmas and New Year and the opposition to I.ROBOT, the team trusting the 1^st position (no games lost during 1^st part of the season), the task was difficult. The first time we played them; we lost by 4 goals and played a correct 1^st half to finally mess up the 2^nd one.

13 players on the game sheet and a few shots on the keeper later, it was time to start. The word was same as usual; hit them hard on the first defense to scare them. Hopefully for us, they were physically about the same size as us, so we didn’t have too many troubles with a strong defense (except the few simulations that they should be ashamed of).

Unfortunately and recurrent problem with us, the attack is not good and when we finally get to have some open shoots, the lack of accuracy does not permit us to score. And after 15 minutes, the score was already 8-4 for them. Not dramatic, but we could see the lack of trainings.

Other main problem was the passing. Too many fancy passes, not assured or no solutions for the ball carrier meant we offered them too many fast breaks, which bring them to score a 6-1 in the last 15 minutes, and reach the half time on the score of 14-5 for them.

For the 2^nd half, we decided to try to take it as luxury training and don’t give them too many chances to score. A few sip of water later, it was time to start over.

The first minutes of the 2^nd half were not better, letting them score a 4-0. We scored our first goal only 7 minutes later. The rest of the 2^nd half time saw them score 2 goals each time we scored 1. We were also unlucky, when we hit 7 times in a row the frame…

The final whistle stopped the hemorrhage on the score of 25-12.

The lack of training and the one month break are the explanation. Though we saw some nice combinations in attack which need to be practiced, I.ROBOT was definitely too strong for us and for our actual level of performance.

A few highlights, Paul, best scorer of the day with 4 goals, Tim, who played on the field and scored a nice goal from the wing and the team, who didn’t get angry or didn’t lose focus during the 2^nd half, when we usually start to mess up.

Same as usual, only training can help us improve. Working on basics, passing, shooting accuracy and defense are the main points for us.

A few trainings are coming, and the next game will be against our direct opponent in the ranking, so we need to win and make sure we stay in 1^st division!

See you all on the pitch very soon.

Happy New Year

The redaction of the blog gather to wish to all of you a great and fastuous year 2013.

Best wishes for personal and professional side, as well as handball side!

Just talking about handball, the 2nd part of the season is starting, which will see us play one more time every team.
Great chance to do better than 1st part and end ud with more wins than lost.

Stay tuned for the news!