Varna and Tirana safely through

Top two
Varna and Tirana, of Bulgaria and Albania respectively, finished first and second in the three-team mini-tournament hosted by English side Sheffield Hallam at the weekend. That means Varna will enter Group 8 of the next round, while Tirana will take a place in Group 6.

Opening game
Sheffield were in action in the first game of the round-robin event held at the English Institute of Sport in Yorkshire, but lost out 6-4 to Tirana. The Albanian side had to work hard however, after seeing a 4-0 interval lead wiped out before two late goals restored their advantage.

Strong showing
Tirana then made sure of their progression by drawing 3-3 with Varna in their second and final game. This meant Sheffield had to triumph in their final game to go through while the Bulgarian side knew a draw would be enough. However, it  was to be a one-sided affair with Varna coming out on top 13-6, the margin of victory ensuring them top spot.