|
Just like last year Holland became the winner of the 17th U19JWC in Leek. This wasn't easy however. During the cross matches they had to win from Belgium, who stayed close to Holland during a large part of the game, and even took the lead during the second half. Only during the last 15 minutes Holland was able to take a decisive lead: 12-10.
The other finalist, Chinese Taipei had less trouble with England 6-13.
During the final, lead in a terrific way by referees from Belgium Mertens and Meeussen, Chinese Taipei was able to stay close to Holland during the first half making beautiful actions and much to the enthusiasm of the audience, resulting in 13-13 at the beginning of the second half. After that, tiredness got the best of the Asian players and it was easy for Holland to take a decisive lead, and winning by 26-16.
Belgium became third by winning form England by 17-15, in a game that was very attractive and the scores were every other one. The talent teams from North and East, as well as the Groningen Regioteam participated hors concours.
Final ranking; 1 Holland, 2. Chinese Taipei, 3. Belgium, 4. England, 5. Germany, 6. Czech republic, 7.Russia, 8. Hungary, 9. Portugal, 10. Poland, 11. Serbia.
Best male scorer: Dmitri Petrukhin of Russia: 22 goals
Best female scorer: Chinese Ya-Wen Li with 37 goals!
IKF President Jan Fransoo didn't only gave the trophy to the winning team. Just before the final he awarded Hans Vroegh from Oldeberkoop the Pin of Merit of the IKF for his great merits at the international korfball scene.
During the morning on Sunday, the tournament was suspended for almost an hour, as a spectator became unwell and was stabilized at the scene, before being transported to hospital.
The organization of the 17th edition was done by district North of the KNKV in close cooperation with Sparta Zevenhuizen, OWK Oostwold and Rodenburg Leek. |
Last Wednesday the Russian team played an exhibition game against a mixed team of B-aspirant players of OWK.
For England there was nothing to gain anymore, so they hoped for a nice game against Chinese Taipei. The English weren't afraid, as they played just for fun, but on a quality level they were inferior to the "spring-alongs" from the East. End result 6-13.
In a packed sportscentre the final between the Netherlands and Chinese Taipei started very exciting. Both teams scored every other one during the first half. After the break Holland took the lead and stayed there. Despite the fierce battle of Chinese Taipei, and many unfinished chances, the Dutch team reigned and showed their class by winning by 26-16.
