Yesterday, the veterans Marcus Ellis/ Chris Langridge managed to get through to the semifinals at the Denmark Open 2020.
They faced the Popov brothers in the quarterfinal. Reminiscent of their first round encounter, it was a disappointing opening game by the English. They trailed for the most part but managed to score four straight points in the end to secure the game.
- The first game was very important. Actually, we didn’t deserve to win it, Ellis said.
- It definitely helped us in the second game. We don’t think we are overly happy with how we played, he continued.
Still not a hundred per cent
The English won the match in two straight games 21-19, 21-17. However, they were not happy with their overall performance.
- It was one of those matches where we had to fight through. There were some bad patches where we could have just given up, Ellis recalled.
- I give full credit to the opponents for the way they played. We were quite lucky to win today. They played very well. I am a bit frustrated with how we performed, Langridge agreed.
Picking up where they left off
Vladimir Ivanov/ Ivan Sozonov had already booked a place in today’s schedule when the English took the court. The Russians say they hope to meet them in the final on Sunday.
- I am not sure why they picked us. Hopefully, they think that we are the biggest threat, Ellis wondered.
- It could be age! We’re the oldest pairs left, Langridge quipped.
- We would like to see them in the final and have a European battle, Ellis continued.
The head-to-head statistic of 4-0 favours the Russians. Their latest encounter was at the All England Open this year, which happened to be the last match for the English before the seven-month break. They will be more than eager to set the record straight.
Saturday before Sunday
The veterans will have a tough task today to set up a dream final. They face young pairs for the first time. Marcus Ellis/ Chris Langridge must overcome the challenge of Joel Eipe/ Rasmus Kjær, while the Russians take on another English pair Ben Lane/Sean Vendy.
- There is a big match to play before the expected final can happen, Ellis concluded.
Both these pairs have made the semifinals by causing major upsets on the way. Therefore, we are in for two amazing men’s doubles matches today.