Benelux Champions 2015

Amsterdam continued their great start to the season recently by winning both the Frankfurt regional tournament and Benelux 2015 Championship.

Top of the Benelux Championship, ahead of Belgium, going into the final round in Frankfurt, the ‘Dam had their destiny in their own hands in Germany. Early victories over Eindhoven and Dusseldorf respectively, gave Amsterdam a semi-final berth. On the other side of the draw, Frankfurt and Zurich shocked Luxembourg and Belgium by knocking them out at the group stages. Belgium’s elimination meant Amsterdam had secured the coveted Benelux Championship crown before the semi-final stage.

With one cup coming back to The Netherlands, the ‘Dam were still keen to secure a second piece of silverware on the day by winning the regional tournament itself. Hosts Frankfurt were Amsterdam’s opponents in the semis and looked strong throughout, but Darren Corcoran in goals proved the hero by saving two penalties en route to victory. 

Due to a walkover by Dusseldorf, Zurich had the luxury of going straight through to the final. Despite this rest, it was Amsterdam exploded who into life, and had a six point winning margin going into half-time. Zurich steadied themselves early in the second half and brought the deficit down to two points at one stage before multiple scores from Daryel Murnin, Fergal Walsh and Colm Brennan ensured Amsterdam ran out winners in the end. 

Great performances by everyone, and congratulations to Simon Palmer who was named player of the tournament.
Thanks to Frankfurt for organising an excellent tournament – the celebrations (and book-readings) carried on well into the night!
Up next, on July 11th is the European 15 aside championship where Amsterdam Men’s team will look to retain their European Championship title against Belgium, Den Haag, Eindhoven, and Luxembourg, while Holland Ladies will face off against Belgium Ladies in their Championship decider.

Auf Wiedersehen!