Germany lost their title at the TMS European Championships in Lisbon. They were unbeaten in the final since the EC in Belgrade 2007. Portugal halted their progress to the new record. If they had succeeded yesterday they will have broke the record of Swede
Germany lost their title at the TMS European Championships in Lisbon. They were unbeaten in the final since the EC in Belgrade 2007. Portugal halted their progress to the new record. If they had succeeded yesterday they will have broke the record of Sweden with 6 consecutive titles n Men’s Teams Event in 1964 1966 1968 1970 1972 1974.
They had consolation in silver after thrilling final against host nation. “Congratulation to the winners. They proved they had a best three players here in hall. They deserved to win. We were misfortunates before this tournament and everything that had proceeded led to our disappointment now. We could not have best of preparation for the players who are here ” explained coach Jorg ROSSKOPF.
ROSSKOPF admitted their goal is to move to the next level. “It is not another title in Europe. We want to beat the best in the World.”
Patric BAUM withdrew Patrick FRANZISKA ended his aspiration with the injury on the second day and right from the plane fresh from surgery Dimitrij OVTCHAROV was forced to play. “Under this circumstances this team gave its best. It was not easy for us at all.”
Timo BOLL beat Joao MONTEIRO but lost against Marcos FREITAS in the ultimate match. “I never gave up. I always play until the end. I struggled with Marcos’ service game tonight. He had big advantage in that part ” stated Timo BOLL.
OVTCHAROV was also disappointed. “I was not ready for this. Medications that I have to take are very strong. I am not fit and I am without the training. It was very visibly in the final. When everything happened I just did not want to sit in front of TV and not to help my teammates. I came here and gave my best. It worked before the final but at the end Tiago was too strong. He played perfectly tonight ” said OVTCHAROV.
MENGEL was in new situation. “This is my first Championships. I am disappointed we did not reach the gold. In Germany only titles count but we have to move on.”
