Europe Top-16 Cup | 3 Feb 2018

SHIBAEV and WINTER opens the Events with surprises

China Construction Bank 2018 ITTF Europe Top 16 Cup

 

 

Alexander SHIBAEV seeded no. 7 create the upset in the early stages of the China Construction Bank 2018 ITTF Europe Top 16 Cup by beating no. 3 seed Simon GAUZU of France no. three seed (11:9, 11:4, 8:11, 11:4, 5:11, 9:11, 11:7). In the opening Round in Salle omnisports du Pierrier in Montreaux the upsets continued as Sabine WINTER of Germany no. 13 beat LI Qian of Poland no. 7 at the seeding (11:6, 9:11, 4:11, 14:12, 11:5, 11:5).

 

Alexander SHIBAEV had a better start, but GAUZY managed to recover after being 2:0 and 3:1 in reverse.

 

“I had a good start but then I lost my focus. However despite the GAUZY’s recover I did not lost my faith. I was sure if I continue to play my game I will be in the control again. It was tactically hard match, but most important tactic for me was to play my game and to attack with forehand,” said SHIBAEV.

 

Due the injury GAUZY had only five days of trainings before he came in Switzerland.

 

“I had a two months break and I am far from the best shape. It is always difficult to lose seven games match, but under such circumstances I have to accept it with the optimism. Even yesterday I was not sure if I could play today. Fortunately I feel less pain and I am looking forward coming encounters,” said GAUZY.

 

The drama was also seen in the Women’s event. Sabine WINTER was 2:1 behind LI Qian but she recovered in big style. It is Sabine’s third time to play at Top 16.

 

“When I play at the Top 16 for a first time I was happy I was qualified. I was not under pressure and I finished at the position no. 6. Last year I came from the shoulder injury with low expectation and achieved great success. I was third. This time too I did not come well prepared. I did not have enough training, so once again my expectations were not high and I was not nervous. However thing changed when I saw the draw with two players with defending style. That is the style I feel comfortable with. It seams it is good not to have high expectations, but for sure I will give my best,” said WINTER.

 

Playing against defender proved as specialty for Sabine today.

 

“I hat to put top spin on the table and to avoid any direct attacks. The key is in patience. You have to have it a lot against such players,” said WINTER.

 

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