Catalonia defeat England with last second winner

It was heartbreak for England in the Dutch city of Drachten on Monday afternoon when Catalonia’s Marc Castillo Caragol scored with just 10 seconds remaining on the clock in England’s third and final group match of the IKF European Korfball Championships.

England made the perfect start opening a 0-2 lead with goals from Owen Bailey and Natasha Dawson before Marc Castillo Caragol opened Catalonia’s account.

A goal from Neala Brennan and two more goals from Owen Bailey moved the score onto 1-5 in favour of England.

During the second quarter Catalonia found their way back into the match, reducing the deficit to just three goals at the half-time break [8-11].

England did not panic, and continued to play some absolutely fantastic, free-flowing, dynamic korfball.

In the fourth and final quarter of the match both teams stepped up the intensity, fighting for every loose ball and 50/50 challenge. England again scored some excellent team goals – the only problem (from an England supporters point-of-view) was that Catalonia were converting more of their chances.

Catalonia won the fourth quarter 7-4, with the final goal being scored with under 10 second left on the match clock.

The result will undoubtedly be a disappointment for the squad. England have a break tomorrow, with no matches. The squad will rest, recharge their batteries, regroup and focus on their next opponents.

England you can be proud of the way your team played today. We have a talented squad, a number with superstar potential. Just today, it wasn’t to be. Owen Bailey top scored for England with 8 goals, with Neala Brennan contributing 3 of her own.

Did you watch the match? Let us know your thoughts on social. Join the conversation using the hashtags #thisiskorfball and #EKC2018

Photo(s): Gertrude de Vries