The British Table Tennis Duo Face Tough Loss in Paralympic Quarterfinal
Formidable Challenge for GB Pair
The British table tennis duo faced a formidable challenge in the quarterfinal of the Paralympic Games, taking on the highly experienced Chinese pairing of Zhao Shuai and Mao Jingdian. Zhao, a three-time class 8 Paralympic champion, and Mao, a three-time class 8 champion who now competes in class 9, proved too strong for the GB pair, securing a convincing 3-0 victory.
Comeback Attempt Falls Short
Despite losing the first set 11-3, the British team fought back valiantly in the second, taking a 9-4 lead. However, the seasoned Chinese competitors used their vast experience to claw their way back, eventually clinching the set 12-10. In the third set, Zhao and Mao maintained their composure and secured the match with an 11-5 triumph.
“I think they seem very comfortable as a pair,” said the British team’s coach, Stacey. “They played the right table tennis at the right moments, which you’d expect from experienced players like them. Their quality wasn’t unbelievably good, but everything was just very solid, and they executed the right shots when they needed to.”
Valuable Experience for Young British Duo
For the British duo, this was only their second tournament together, with Twomey’s teammate, Bly, being just 14 years old. The coach acknowledged that they have room for improvement and more experience playing together, but expressed confidence that they will eventually be able to overcome such formidable opponents.
Although disappointed with the loss, Twomey can take pride in her Paralympic debut, having already secured a bronze medal in the women’s doubles event with Fliss Pickard. She is now looking forward to her upcoming singles events, which commence on September 3.
The British Para Table Tennis Team’s media officer, Francesca Bullock, can be contacted for further information.
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