Usually a cliche, except this time is the simple truth. Metalurg lost its rematch to Zagreb, not to the Croatian club, but to the Spanish refs.
Everyone who saw the match knew that the game was decided after e bizzare suspension in which the Spanish refs suspended Mirkulovski for 2 min. with seven minutes remaining. To seal the deal, Zagreb was awarded a penalty as well!
During an offensive play for Zagreb in the 53rd minute, the referee who was right next to the play kept his whistle silent, however the ref who was a 'mile' away made a call, suspended Mirkulovski and awarded penalty for Zagreb who expectedly increased their lead.
This was the deciding moment in the match when the visitors psychologically gave up. The Spanish refs simply let Metalurg know they controlled the match and were destined to lose.
But wait, that wasn't the end.
The Spanish refs having a hand in ensuring Zagreb gets closer to victory, tried to wash away their sins by illogically suspending a Zagreb player who did nothing wrong. Metalurg saw a window of opportunity and pressed once again only for the Spanish refs to once again needlessly suspend a Metalurg player for 2 minutes. This time it was Stevce Alushevski.
At this point, the match was decided. Zagreb used the opportunity with an extra player to increase the lead for a final 26-21.
