EURO CHAMPIONSHIPS x MEN’S SEMIFINALS x VIDEO HIGHLIGHTS

Semifinal day at the Men’s European Championships featured Belgium playing The Netherlands (SF1) and Germany taking on England (SF2) and they did not disappoint!

In the first Semi, Belgium came out of the blocks strongly only for the Dutch to make their mark early in the 15th minute. Belgium answered not long after after some brilliant lead-up play by G-Team ambassador Thomas Briels, who set up hs fellow striker who was clinical from 13 yds in the 22nd minute.

Belgium then took the lead through another Gryphon gun, Simon Gougnard, after a scramble on the goal line. 2-1 in the 29th minute. The Dutch answered calmly through a penalty corner in the 32nd minute, 2-2 at the break.

In the 2nd half, the Dutch controlled preceedings, claiming the lead in the 39th minute through another direct flick and then consolidating in the 61st with a 4-2 lead. Game over, The Netherlands are through to their 9th Euro Cup final in 13 editions.

In the other semi, Hosts Germany played England, whom are the reigning European champions. It was billed as a titanic match up, but the final score did not reflect this. As always, the German defence was at its best and finished without coneding a goal. At the other end, the clinical finishing saw them net 1 goal in the first half and 2 in the second. Full time, 3-0 to Germany and they are through to Sunday’s final against the Dutch. It will be Germany’s 9th final’s appearance as well. Holland – Germany is a great rivalry and it’s expected to be a sell out.

In the other days games, where the fight is on for places 5th to 8th, Ireland defeated Russia 8-2 and Spain scrapped past 2-1

Enjoy the highlights, via UKHockeyTV

MEN (SF1): NETHERLANDS v BELGIUM