Only four squads remain in position to be the first ever European mid-amateur team champions.
Spain and Belgium punched their ticket to the final in the men’s and ladies’ competitions respectively, where they will all be up against this week’s home nation.
All the semi-final’s morning foursomes ended up with one side leading two points to none, except between Ireland and Belgium in the Ladies’ championship. Shannon Burke and Jessica Ross scored the first point for Ireland, but Céline Manche and Diane Bailleux fought their way to a win of their own.
France was able to collect both foursomes in the second match against Germany. Meanwhile, the home country’s men’s side did the same against Ireland, although both French pairings had to fight hard until the last green. Number one seed Spain also took the upper hand over Germany, winning both morning matches in convincing fashion, 4&3.
Needing only one point from the three afternoon singles, the Spaniards quickly got the job done, with Iñigo Carmona’s win over Philipp Westermann in match number three.
France also capitalised on their morning success, but once again, Ireland showed a piece of its well known fighting spirit. Alexis Leray had to wait until the 18th green to beat Paul Coughlan, and secure France’s spot in the final.
The home team already has two guaranteed medals for the week, as the Ladies won the last two singles against Germany to move on to the title contest. The French will face Belgium, who emerged victorious from what proved to be the tightest matchup of the day.
Jessica Ross put Ireland on top by winning the first match. But like they did in the morning, Belgium struck back, as Céline Manche took match number three. It all came down to the duel between Emma O’Driscoll and Lucille Lambert, where the latter made a putt from outside the green on the first playoff hole to extend the match.
The final stretch became even more dramatic when both players birdied hole number three, paving the way for a 22nd hole. A long day of golf came to an end when Lucille Lambert fullfilled Belgium’s dearest wish.
Both finals will be played on Saturday, once again consisting of two morning foursomes, and three afternoon singles.
