Europe Cup Men | 18 May 2014

Saarbrucken, the work is (almost) done

For a third time this season Saarbrucken overcame LIEBHERR Ochsenhausen: in the first leg of the Men’s ETTU Cup final Saarbrucken succeeded in Biberach. Bojan TOKIC gave guests dream start against Olympic champion from 2004, Korean RYU Seung Min 1:3 (9:11

For a third time this season Saarbrucken overcame LIEBHERR Ochsenhausen: in the first leg of the Men’s ETTU Cup final Saarbrucken succeeded in Biberach.

Bojan TOKIC gave guests dream start against Olympic champion from 2004, Korean RYU Seung Min 1:3 (9:11, 7:11, 12:10, 7:11). Slovenia’s player lost only third game, by narrow margin. Liam PITCHFORD won his opening game against Bastian STEGER. However, after that set everything went on STEGER’S account 1:3 (11:6, 9:11, 9:11, 5:11). Tiago APOLONIA faced no problems against Simon GAUZY. He sealed the match with straight games victory (6:11, 4:11, 8:11).

“The crucial moment was the victory of TOKIC against RYU. In most important moments Bojan maintained his focus, stayed calm and won. He did not rush into points even in moments when RYU had advantage; it was 6:2 and 6:3 in two games for Korean player,” explained coach Slobodan GRJUIC.

STEGER was out of game for a while. ”He was without matches for six weeks and started his trainings two weeks ago. Young Liam took first game, but after that STEGER’s experience prevailed. He might not be in best of form, but tactically he played perfect match.”

Until last moment APOLONIA’s participation was under question mark. ”He had problems with neck. Only few hours before match we decided he should play and his performance again GAUZY was without any error.”