Ukraine and Great Britain take European B crowns

The Ukrainian men’s team topped the podium at the IBSA Goalball European Championship Group B, whilst Great Britain took gold the women’s title.

The event was held in Maia, Portugal, from 4-8 October.

Ukraine sealed the men’s title following a 14-6 win over Great Britain and both finalists as a result secured promotion to the European Group A, the continent’s top division.

The eventual champions finished top of Pool A after defeating Poland 15-5, Russia 14-4, Israel 11-1 and Great Britain 8-6 to qualify for the quarter-finals.

Ukraine then beat Hungary 15-5, Israel 12-8 and Great Britain to finish undefeated and claim gold.

On the women’s side, Great Britain was the undisputed winner after beating France 13-3, Greece 6-4, Hungary 10-0, Portugal 10-0, Spain 10-0, the Netherlands 11-1 and Germany 4-1.

Both the champions and runners-up Germany were promoted to the A division.

Men’s standings. 1. Ukraine; 2. Great Britain; 3. Slovenia; 4. Israel; 5. Hungary; 6. Spain; 7. Poland; 8. Portugal; 9. Denmark. 10. Russia.

Women’s standings. 1. Great Britain; 2. Germany; 3. Greece; 4. The Netherlands; 5. Spain; 6. Belgium; 7. France; 8. Hungary.