Toshiko Kataoka ended up winning the match 3:2.
MENS AND WOMENS’ SINGLES FINALS
Reprinted from http://www.wvc2014.com/
It is evident that China and Japan are dominating both double and single events. Nevertheless, countries such as Germany, Austria and Sweden have shown their table tennis expertise with representatives in both the semi and final matches from all age and gender groups. Here follows a rundown of the crowd favourites in the single matches. WOMENS Monica Kneip, the defending champion in the over 60’s arena, battled against Larisa Andreeva of Russia, who won the doubles with her partner earlier today. Larisa came out with the win, taking the gold medal with a result of 3:0. Needless to say her victory wasn’t taken with ease, as Monica put up a good fight in all three games. Japan’s Toshiko Kataoka and Keiko Takakiwa in the 50-59 division played each other in the finals. Both players performed with an attacking mind set, Takakiwa with a definitive back hand and Kataoka showcasing her strong forehand. By keeping the play nice and short it was a quick game to watch.
MENS Zheng Li (CHN), who previously played Peter Karlsson in the semis, went up against Bing Tang, who is also from China (MD40-49). Shot of the day goes to Bing Tang for a great set of lobs that landed perfectly on the table, with the final shot landing on the side of the table. Taking it nice and casually Tang claimed gold for the over 40’s division 3:0. Jean Michael Carquin of France played against China’s Min Huang (MD50-59). Min Huang claimed victory in another very competitive game. The final result for this game was 3:2. Overall, all participants played very well and we have been pleasantly surprised with the amount of skill each player brought to the table. Each individual displayed throughout the competition their own personal finesse, which added to the excitement and enjoyment of watching each and every game. Additionally, the family, friends and public that have supported these players has been outstanding, and has therefore added to the unique atmosphere of the championships. We trust all those that have come from overseas have enjoyed their time here at the trust stadium and we hope that their trip home is a safe one. We will be updating additional information onto the site, so this is not the last that you will hear from us.
Summer Issue/June 2014 • usatt.org/MAGAZINE
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