Reigning champion of Men`s European Champions League, Fakel Gazproma Orenburg gained a big advantage in first quarter final leg, beating away Borussia Dusseldorf 3:0 (9:4 in sets). The clash of the titans was opened by two super stars Timo BOLL and Vladim,
Reigning champion of Men`s European Champions League, Fakel Gazproma Orenburg gained a big advantage in first quarter final leg, beating away Borussia Dusseldorf 3:0 (9:4 in sets). The clash of the titans was opened by two super stars Timo BOLL and Vladimir SAMSONOV announced big victory of Russian club.
It seems unbelievable to have Borussia with all five losses in five matches this season, and beside that four out of them with 3:0. “Red Lions” got a new chance after Chartres`s disqualification in group stage, but today`s game not promises to much in returning game at Orenburg (January 31st, 12h20 CET)
Two best European players for years, owners of nine individual gold medals in total from continental championships, met in first encounter. Vladimir SAMSONOV, who reached his first three out of ten MECL titles in Borussia`s jersey, beat the six times individual winner of ECH Timo BOLL in four sets. As always, it was open fight with many beautiful points. Bielorussian, actual vice-champion of Old Continent, did a key step on his 8:7 led in fourth set. He attacked on German backhand side, to collect last three points in row.
Dimitrij OVTCHAROV, a member of Borussian winning team in 2009, defeated his team mate from the national team Patrick BAUM in four games. Host saved three set points in opening set (7:10, 10:10) but missed a good situation to take a lead. However, BAUM leveled on 1:1 in sets, while OVTCHAROV showed his power in last moments of next two sets (host led 9:8 in 3rd, 9:5 in 4th). Actual individual European champion concluded the game with six consecutive points.
Indian Kamal ACHANTA was on good way to win the game against Alexey SMIRNOV, but Russian turned the match after 2:0 lead of the host. Former Euro Top-12 winner showed why he is considered as the best no. 3 at MECL.
Quarter final of Men`s European Champions League Leg1
Borussia Dusseldorf – Gazproma Orenburg 0:3
Timo BOLL – Vladimir SAMSONOV 1:3 (9:11, 11:8, 9:11, 7:11).
Patrick BAUM – Dimitrij OVTCHAROV 1:3 (10:12, 11:8, 12:14, 9:11)
Kamal ACHANTA – Alexey SMIRNOV 2:3 (13:11, 11:3, 9:11, 6:11, 6:11)
