Real Club Cajasur Priego TM secured a narrow 3-2 victory over SF SKK El Niño Praha in the opening leg of the ETTU Europe Cup Men final, taking a valuable advantage ahead of the decisive return match in Prague.
“We are very happy with tonight’s victory. It was an important first step towards winning the title, but we know there is still another tough match waiting for us in Prague,” said Carlos MACHADO.
The Spanish side recovered after an early setback, as Yevhen PRYSHCHEPA defeated Robert GARDOS in four games to give El Niño Praha the lead. Hampus SODERLUND quickly restored parity with a strong win over David REITSPIES before Carlos MACHADO put Priego ahead by overcoming Tomas KONECNY in straight games.
The Czech club responded once more when REITSPIES edged GARDOS in a dramatic five-game encounter to level the overall score at 2-2. However, SODERLUND delivered again for the hosts, defeating PRYSHCHEPA in four games to secure the overall victory for Real Club Cajasur Priego TM.
“Tonight was a historic night for the club. The atmosphere is something I will carry with me for the rest of my life. But now we have to recover and reload for next week. Either way, it will be a great experience in Prague” siad SODERLUND.
Real Club Cajasur Priego TM – SF SKK El Niño Praha 3-2
- Robert GARDOS – Yevhen PRYSHCHEPA 1-3 (6-11, 12-10, 5-11, 6-11)
- Hampus SODERLUND – David REITSPIES 3-1 (11-8, 11-7, 9-11, 11-4)
- Carlos MACHADO – Tomas KONECNY 3-0 (11-9, 11-8, 11-7)
- Robert GARDOS – David REITSPIES 2-3 (11-8, 8-11, 11-9, 6-11, 3-6)
- Hampus SODERLUND – Yevhen PRYSHCHEPA 3-1 (12-10, 5-11, 11-8, 11-6)
