Underdogs on top in the pool play

2017-06-28 13:30:00 CET

Underdogs on top in the pool play

Olympic stars’ Tuesday struggle

Bieneck/Schneider beat Ludwig/Kozuch in three sets this morning. Photocredit: Samo Vidic.

Tuesday has seen a morning of incredible results at the Poreč Major with two Olympic champions finding life tough in the pool play.

It’s difficult to decide which is the biggest upset. Either Laura Ludwig and Maggie Kozuch’s defeat to fellow Germans Bieneck/Schneider or Austria’s Winter/Seidl victory over Phil Dalhausser and Nick Lucena!

In the all-German women’s clash on side court 2, 2016 Olympic gold medalist Ludwig and stand-in partner Kozuch went down in three sets, losing the decider 18-16.

An hour later there was more drama, as 2008 Olympic champion Dalhausser and his teammate Nick Lucena were on the receiving end of a stunning performance from Winter/Seidl. The Austrians, who are heading to the FIVB Beach Volleyball World Championships presented by A1 as wildcards, needed 41 minutes to record an impressive straight sets victory.

“It’s unbelievable,” Winter told us. “Lucena/Dalhausser are two of the best players in the world. We’re a new team and I can’t believe it, we’re so happy.

“The crowd were amazing; there are so many Austrian fans here. Thanks Poreč!”

However, for reigning Poreč Major and men’s Olympic champions it was business as usual. Alison/Bruno saw off Germans Dollinger/Erdman 21-19, 21-16 to get their defence off to the perfect start.

But their Brazilian rivals Evandro/Andre were on the receiving end of a defeat as there was more joy for the Austrians. Tournament wilcards Ermacora/Pristauz won in straight sets to get their competition off to a flying start.

Want to relive the drama? Then simply visit BeachStream and watch all the action back!