Following an 18-12 victory over Ireland, Russia swept to a clear lead after round 21 of the Generali European Bridge Open Team Championship in Tenerife yesterday. However, San Marino, one of the competition's weakest teams, caused an upset when they defeated Russia 25-5. Poland and Greece took advantage of the Russians' slip to get within three and five points respectively of the leaders.
Following their defeat by Russia, the same four Irish players, Tom Hanlon, Hugh McGann, Padraig O Briain and Tomas Roche, lost 24-6 to championship holders Italy.
Ireland's seniors' chances of getting a place on the podium were damaged by a 0-25 loss to Poland A.
Open team standings after 22 rounds were: 1, Russia 402; 2, Poland 399; 3, Greece 397; 4, Norway 385; 5, Italy 380; 6, Belgium and France 377; 32, Ireland 258.
Women's team standings after 12 rounds were: 1, England 240; 2, Austria 222; 3, France 213; 4, Czech Republic and Spain 211; 6, Israel 209.
Seniors' team standings after 12 rounds were: 1, France B 236; 2, Italy B 216; 3, France A 213; 4, Netherlands 212; 14, Ireland 175.