We’re dissecting the finer points of today’s play in Stockholm, let it not be said that the Stockholm Gaels cannot organise a stunner of a tournament, because today would then have to beg to refute you.
Stockholm is a magnificent city built on 7 islands in an archipelago of wonderful proportions (your dear author nearly had a conniption when we exited our final tunnel and flew down a bridge over & beside & around the waterside – Stockholm is fairytale made life.) That aside, perfect 18° and semi clouded football weather, fair refs, gold competitive football, lovely buzz and crowds at the venue all day. {The sports fitness classes we witnessed were also memorable – called either frumble rumble, or grapple, they were an interactive series of ‘primal movements’, generally carried out in pairs, but akin to well, things that aren’t generally carried out in public parks in the repressed southern countries from where we hale. By why ever the hell not?} The Swedish – Irish society also deserve an extra special shout out for providing tea, coffee, cakes, taytos and biscuits for us and all passers by freegratis! It was so lovely and much appreciated.
There’s a cup involved. They’re looking after it well. Here’s how the day went….
Belgium A 5-13 v Munich 2-3
Holland 6-11 v Stockholm 2-4
Munich 4-14 v Gothenburg/Bordeaux 1-3
Stockholm v Belgium B 2-6
Belgium A 9-29 v Gothenburg/Bordeaux 0-1
Holland 4-12 v Belgium B 2-7
Then we had lunch. Not fikka. Nor open sandwiches, but proper lunch.
Then the football calmly started up again.
Playoff stages now.
Belgium B faced Gothenburg/Bordeaux and won. 4-12 to 0-3
Semi final one saw Belgium A dispatch Stockholm 4 -23 to 0-1.
Holland ladies finished at 2-12 in a tight match against Munich who managed 2-10.
Final face off, countdown, battle for the ages? Belgium A v Holland ladies. I’ve spoiled the ending by posting the cup photos haven’t I? Well. A great, exciting final was had – and Belgium A won.
We’re celebrating our newest Rose of Tralee nomination too (ask for videos). Its another step closer to the 2014 championship for the Belgian Ladies, while Belgian men are in bed tucked up asleep – ready and raring to go we hope at ten tomorrow 🙂
Belgium GAA 