REPORT BY LEE HORTON
Essex pair Elise Lazarus and Alice Green produced some amazing performances wearing England colours at last week’s European U-19 Championships in Portugal.
Despite being two of the youngest members of the squad, Alice was 15 and Elise 16, the duo surpassed all expectations only losing to eventual individual tournament winner, Cristina Gomez of Spain. Alice was drawn against Gomez in the second round but went on to finish in her highest possible position, ninth. Her performances brought high praise from England coach Lee Drew who commended Alice for a great tournament.
He said:” We couldn’t have asked any more of Alice. She was unfortunate to be paired against the number one seed so early in the tournament but she gave an incredibly mature performance in that match, as well as in all her other matches. She should be proud of her performance. We certainly are.”
For Elise, the match against Gomez was the culmination of an amazing tournament in which she upset the ranking order to reach the final. Her biggest win came in the semis where she overcame England team-mate and number two seed, Lucy Turmel from Suffolk. That 3-1 win took a lot out of Elise and that tiredness, combined with stiflingly hot conditions, made it a tough final outing with Gomez taking the title 11-9, 12-10, 11-1.
Lee Drew added:” Elise’s preparation, mindset and play throughout the tournament was totally excellent. To reach a European final at the age of 16 is quite special. She will learn a lot from the event a come back even stronger. She did England proud.”
Following the individual event, Elise was included in England’s team of five for the European team event. The squad of Kyle Finch, Charlie Lee, Harry Falconer, Lucy Turmel and Elise proved invincible powering their through the entire event unbeaten to be crowned European Champions.
For a full list of results go to: RESULTS.
