Europe Top-16 Cup | 3 Feb 2019
Finalists, club mates and good friends SAMSONOV vs. OVTCHAROV
CCB Europe Top 16 Cup Montreux
In the breathtaking semi final of the Men’s Event at the CCB Europe Top 16 Cup Montreux Dimitrij OVTCHAROV beat Timo BOLL in seven games (9:11, 3:11, 3:11, 11:5, 11:4, 11:9, 7:11). Vladimirv SAMSONOV of Belarus needed one less to overcame Daniel HABESOHN of Austria (9:11, 4:11, 11:9, 9:11, 11:6, 9:11).
OVTCHAROV halted BOLL’s progress to the seventh title at the Top 16 in fantastic match. It extended to full seven games, but the real battle of the titans started only from the fourth game. The opening game was close, but after OVTCHAROV called for time out at 8:9 it seamed only one player left at the field.
Dimitrij won opening game and in next two left Timo with only 6 points.
“Even when I was three games up, I knew there is still a long way to go. Timo did not play well at the beginning and I seized the opportunity to gain some advantage, but it was not over. It was important that I stay self confident and to keep on pushing. I believed in myself even when BOLL leveled,” said OVTCHAROV.
Four-time Europe Top 16 Cup winner, Vladimir SAMSONOV at age of 43 proved once again that he is master of the game. HABESOHN had his chances, but Vladi controlled the game better.
“It was tough game; not many rallies, but tactically very demanding. I had to be focused on each ball, “ said SAMSONOV.” I am looking forward duel with my club mate OVTCHAROV. I can only promise good match for the spectators.”
