UE Sopron Sunk In Another Close Contest

Anastasiya Verameyenka made seven-of-nine from the field on her way to 16 points

There was more disappointment for gutsy and hard-working UE Sopron who suffered yet another close loss after going down 74-69 at home to Fenerbahce in Euroleague Women Group B.

It was the sixth time in eight games that Sopron have been beaten by six points or less and they replicated their efforts of the first meeting between the clubs when by again providing some stiff resistance for Fener to deal with.

But, the visitors just about had enough in the tank to get the job done, especially with another terrific and efficient display from center Anastasiya Verameyenka who finished with 16 points and even converted a couple of key triples along the way.

Her efforts were well complemented in the Fener backcourt by Cappie Pondexter who returned from her recent hand injury to claim 16 points, whilst fellow guard Birsel Vardarli handed out eight assists.

And, it was a good job the trio did, because Sopron were a tough nut to crack as usual, much of that down to doing a far better job on the boards and Shenise Johnson also re-discovering her form with a standout 24 points and 12 rebounds.

Sopron played really well and frustrated Fenerbahce during a feisty opening half, the home side leading 34-29 and being on course for a potential shock with ten second left until the break.

Only they handed the initiative to their opponents as Vardarli converted with a jump-shot before Verameyenka drained a buzzer-beating triple from the wing.

A strong start to the second half put Fenerbahce on top at 63-54 and whilst Sopron latterly made it a one-shot game, it was as close as they would get.

Sara Krnjic had an impressive 18 points for the hosts whilst a relieved Fenerbahce moved to 7-2 in the group.

Quotes UE Sopron vs. Fenerbahce

Fenerbahce head coach Roberto Iniguez:
"After the half time we had quickly a nine-point advantage, but Sopron fought well and came back into the game. We couldn't play our game, because Sopron didn't let us. Congrats to them! Anyway, we won, and that's very important. I'm satisfied with the result and also our place in the group."

Fenerbahce player Nevin Nevlin:
"Both teams played well today. It was difficult to win, because of Sopron's good game. We are very happy, and keep working for our aims."

UE Sopron head coach Norbert Szekely:
"We played today also a high level basketball against one of the best teams in the EuroLeague Women. I hate that we are still the likeable loser, but I have to say, Fenerbahce has a stronger team. We played on the border of our knowledge, and I'm satisfied that the game was open until the end."

UE Sopron player Shenise Johnson:
"I think the players and also the fans could enjoy this game. Fenerbahce has shown a strong defense. We have to learn also from this game and continue our work."

Quotes UE Sopron vs. Fenerbahce

Fenerbahce head coach Roberto Iniguez:
"After the half time we had quickly a nine-point advantage, but Sopron fought well and came back into the game. We couldn't play our game, because Sopron didn't let us. Congrats to them! Anyway, we won, and that's very important. I'm satisfied with the result and also our place in the group."

Fenerbahce player Nevin Nevlin:
"Both teams played well today. It was difficult to win, because of Sopron's good game. We are very happy, and keep working for our aims."

UE Sopron head coach Norbert Szekely:
"We played today also a high level basketball against one of the best teams in the EuroLeague Women. I hate that we are still the likeable loser, but I have to say, Fenerbahce has a stronger team. We played on the border of our knowledge, and I'm satisfied that the game was open until the end."

UE Sopron player Shenise Johnson:
"I think the players and also the fans could enjoy this game. Fenerbahce has shown a strong defense. We have to learn also from this game and continue our work."