International Roundup

Jim Laugesen, National High Performance Coach reports...

I am delighted to report that Ireland enjoyed it's first international success of the season at the Head Slovak Open!

No.1 seeds Chloe Magee and Karen Bing won the Womens Doubles event defeating Anna Narel and Natalai Pocztowiak 21-13, 21-8 in the final. The girls showed excellent composure throughout and Karen's experience and tactical awareness was a great asset to Chloe's fighting spirit and determination. Well done Chloe and Karen!

The girls doubles redeemed the tournament after Scott, Chloe and Alex had suffered  close defeats to lower ranked players from Finland, England and Denmark in the earlier stages of the tournament, despite Ireland holding No.1 seeded positions in both singles events.

Scott and Chloe lost focus against their opponents and Alex was in the driving seat against Jamie Bonsels before a tactical change in style upset matters.  The singles players understand the work that we need to do and we will be focusing in on areas for improvement over the coming weeks.

Dan Magee operating with English partner Richard Wrigley put up a very credible display in the doubles reaching the quarter finals before being knocked out in a very tight 22-20, 21-16 game by Heino and Von Hertzen of Finland. There is no doubt Dan's doubles education took a leap forward during the tournament.

In the qualifiers Will O'Neill was unfortunate to draw strong Czech player Lukas Zevi and despite some nicely structured play lost 21-15, 21-16. It's good to see Will's commitment and effort and I have no doubt that he will achieve a return in due course.

Next up is Scott in the main draw of the Danish Open this Wednesday.

Jim