Euro Individual – Jorgensen through but Evans claims headlines

Jan O Jorgensen had to fight back from a set down to beat Petr Koukal but it was Irishman Scott Evans who stole the show, as he continued his good run of form, in beating number 5 seed Eric Pang of the Netherlands in 2 straight sets.

By Mark Phelan (Live in Manchester) Photos & Video: Mark Phelan for BadmintonPhoto.com (Live)

Jorgensen, who openly admits a slump in form in the last few months, fought back after losing the opening set to the dangerous Czech shuttler Petr Koukal to march into the next round where he will meet Yakauckuk of Belarussia. After losing the opening set to 19 the number 2 seed bounced back to advance with a 21-18 win in the deciding rubber to advance. Click the video link below to hear the number 2 seeds impression of the game and his aspirations for the tournament.

Elsewhere Irelands Scott Evans showed some real class and even more patience as he sent Eric Pang packing at first round stage. The Irish ace, who comes to Manchester of the back of two finals appearances in the last month on the European tour, was clinically impressive in the opening set and even after a slight stumbled midway through the second was able to compose himself to advance to the second round where he will meet Kestutis Navikas of Lithuania.

Immediately after his victory the Irishman gave his opinions exclusively to Badzine in the interview below.

Badzine’s European Championship coverage is brought to you in association with our partner hotel for the tournament, The Palace Hotel, Manchester.