The second seeded Danes got off to a difficult start, as Pan/Zhang quickly took a four point lead at 6 – 2. Frier/Juhl fought well, but the Chinese couple held on to their lead and got in front by 15 – 11 later in the set. The Danes then took five points in a row and even had two set points before losing a thrilling first set 22 – 20.
In the beginning of the second set Frier/Juhl seemed to have the upper hand, as they went in front by 6 – 2. Pan/Zhang fought back well, though, and midway through the set the score was even at 10 – 10. After that the Danes took charges again grabbing another four point lead, but once again the Chinese couple showed great fighting spirit getting back into the set. However, it wasn’t enough for them, as Frier/Juhl won the set 21 – 18.
The third set started out close, but Pan/Zhang had a small edge. They took control and extended their lead to 11 – 6, as the couples switched sides. The Danes never managed to catch up with the Chinese players, who grabbed a nine point lead at 17 – 8. Pan/Zhang kept their cool and ended up taking hiome the Denmark Open titel after a 21 – 12 win in the third set.
After the game Frier/Juhl spoke about the emotional situation not playing together anymore.
“It’s sad in a way, but we are very happy to finish this era with a Denmark Open final.”
For the whole post-match interview, click here | |
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