Kriens-Lucerne started the main round of the European League with a defeat. The Central Swiss team lost 27:31 at group favorites Montpellier.
After an evenly poised first half, the southern French side made the difference. The two-time Champions League winners, who have nine World Cup participants in their squad, extended their narrow lead at the break (16:15) to seven goals. Kriens-Lucerne were unable to make up for this handicap, but were able to limit the damage - thanks in part to seven goals from Marin Sipic.
Next Tuesday, the league runners-up, who eliminated Kadetten Schaffhausen in the cup semi-final at the weekend, will welcome the Spaniards from Granollers. They occupy last place in the four-team group, one point behind Kriens-Lucerne. First place advances to the quarter-finals, while 2nd and 3rd place qualify for the round of 16. The last team is eliminated.