Russia has retained the lead for the sixth day at the Generali European bridge championships in Tenerife. After a day of close matches, the medals and the five qualifying places for the World Championships in Bali in October appear to be between Russia, Poland, Greece, Italy, France and Norway. Norway beat Russia 17-13, then lost 1119 to Italy. The Italians had two maximum 25s against San Marino and Slovenia earlier, creeping closer to the leaders.
Ireland's woes continued, despite a 19-11 victory by Tom Hanlon, Hugh McGann, Michael MacDonagh and Brendan O'Brien over Croatia in round 23. They lost to Austria, 10-20 and Wales, 6-24. Their next opponents are the Czech Republic, Bulgaria and Denmark.
In the senior's championship, Ireland's Joe MacHale, Alex Montwill, Pat Barry, David Jackson and Greer McKenzie beat Israel B 16-14, drew 15-15 with Lebanon, then lost 11-19 to France A.
England continues to lead the women's event. They lost to Czech Republic, 10-20, but beat Norway by a similar margin. Austria beat France 17-13 and Scotland 20-10 to stay second. Spain and the Czech Republic are the surprise contenders, both in the top five.
Open Teams. Leaders after 25 rounds 1. Russia 455, 2. Poland, 452, 3. Greece 450, 4. Italy 449, 5. France 435, 6. Norway 431, 7. Belgium 423, 8. Austria 419, 9. Denmark 413, 10 Bulgaria 412. 14th England 393, 17th Wales 391, 20th Scotland 383, 33rd IRELAND 295. Thirty five teams compete.
Women's Teams. Leaders after 14 rounds 1. England 271, 2. Austria 261, 3. France 254, 4. Spain 249, 5. Czech Republic 248, 6. Israel 245, 7. Italy 242, 8. Germany, Netherlands 234, 10 Sweden 220. Twenty one teams compete. Seniors Teams. Leaders after 15 rounds 1. France B 288, 2. France A, England 268, 4. Sweden 266, 5. Poland A 263, 6. Italy B 258, 7. Italy B 255, 8. England B 254, 9 Germany B 247, 10 Netherlands 246, 16th IRELAND 217. Twenty seven teams compete.