England lose bronze medal match to Portugal

England missed out on a medal at the 2014 European Championships after losing 22-14 in their bronze medal match against hosts Portugal.

England started the match perfectly with two early two goals from Charlie Vogwill and Blake Palfreyman. The team then failed to convert any of their attempts at goal for 12 minutes, whereas Portugal scored four.

England coach Dave Buckland called a timeout at 4-2 which appeared to have a positive impact as England scored the next three goals to take the score to 4-5.

This would be the last time that England would be ahead during the match.

At the end of the first half England were trailing 10-7.

During the second half England came within 2 goals of Portugal, but were never able to close the gap significantly to ever worry Portugal.

The Portuguese played exceptionally well, converting a higher percentage of their shots.

Vogwill who top scored for England with four goals was voted England’s player of the match by the commentating team on the live YouTube broadcast.

Bec Korfball Club’s Andrew Hall replaced Davesh Patel during the halftime break said: “[It’s] absolutely gutting to come within reach of that bronze medal, only to fall at the last hurdle.

“So so proud of the squad though. We’ve come so far with a totally fresh squad and outstripped all expectations going into the Championships. Such success and great togetherness within the squad certainly bodes well for a bright future… Bring on the World Championships!”

Joe Bedford, 24, said after the match: “Disappointing game today mustn’t lose sight of the end result finishing higher than we have before with the young squad pans well for the future”

Nottingham Korfball Club’s Hannah Lorrimer who scored two during the match said: “The team tried their hearts out, but unfortunately wasn’t to be this time.

“An awesome squad effort to finish our highest place yet. Support from the squad was awesome throughout the entire tournament!

“Exceeded all expectations and a squad to be proud of!! Just sorry we couldn’t bring the bronze home for everyone supporting at home”