LIEBHERR 2016 ITTF European Championships
In a clash for a first ever title in the Doubles Event at the LIEBHERR 2016 ITTF European Championships Patrick FRANZISKA of Germany and Jonathan GROTH of Denmark clinched gold. In the final they beat Jakub DYJAS and Daniel GORAK of Poland 4:2 (4:11 11:4 11:5 7:11 11:7 12:10).
Tiago APOLONIA and Joao GERALDO of Portugal and runners up from Herning 2012 Kristian KARLSSON and Mattias KARLSSON of Sweden clinched bronze medals.
It was the only third appearance for the winners at the big events. Previously they clinched the title in Croatia open and reached the semifinal of the Czech Open.
“We did not have much experiences. That is why we were little bit nervous in the final. To be honest last time I played the final it was in 2010 against Timo BOLL and Christian SUSS ….In addition DYJAS and GORAK played very good. They are very dangerous on short and long balls. It was hard to keep them under the control ” said GROTH.
Sixth game was very important. Polish pairings had three game balls for the decisive game but GROTH and FRANZISKA converted it into their victory.
“Patrick received very good at that point. Also we were already with our minds in the seventh game ” said DYJAS.
Even after defeat in the final Polish player had fantastic Championships. Bronze in the Singles Event and Silver in Doubles is great achievement.
“Everything will look better tomorrow. I played good and the results are great but it will take time before I recovered from todays defeats. It is not easy..”
