England’s Withington and Malliff crowned European Under 19 champions

England’s Finnlay Withington and Katie Malliff triumphed at the European Under 19 Individual Championships 2022 in Eindhoven yesterday, lifting the boy’s and girl’s title respectively.

The last time England captured both individual titles was back in 2016 with the event marking a promising return to the international circuit for the country’s rising stars.

Top seed Malliff from Buckinghamshire showed her class throughout the tournament without dropping a game. In the final, the 18-year-old saw off her Hungarian opponent, Chukwu Chinyere [2] with relative ease, storming to an 11-5, 11-5, 11-5 victory.

Reacting to her win, the World no.77 said: "I’m so pleased to win my last ever junior tournament."

Withington however was made to work hard for the boy’s title against 3/4 seed Rowan Damming of the Netherlands. At 10-12 down in the first, the Lancastrian soon found his rhythm hitting spaces nicely to win the second 11-9. Withington opened up a lead in the fourth, before being pegged back for a tense finish which he eventually got over the line, winning 10-12, 11-9, 11-6, 13-11.

"I’m gassed to win! I’ve come a long way since lockdown." Said 18-year-old Withington.

Chris Ryder, England Development Head Coach said: "Congratulations to Finn and Katie on becoming European Champions. They both displayed not only a winning mentality but also a highly enjoyable brand of squash to watch. They are both exciting talents and I look forward to seeing them progress through the senior rankings.

"All of our players have placed in the top six in their respective events showing the depth in this current squad. Well done to everyone involved."

High Performance Coach Chloe Marshall added: “It’s been fantastic to be back with our players competing at the European Championships after a three-year break. It’s been a great event for the whole England team who have been rewarded for their commitment and hard work during the pandemic.

“We’re back stronger than ever and look forward to continuing our campaign at the World Juniors later this year.”

Elsewhere, in the boy’s event, Samuel Obsorne-Wylde [2] captured bronze with Hassan Khalil [3/4] and Jonah Bryant [9/12] finishing in fourth and sixth place respectively. In the girls, Asia Harris [3/4] lifted bronze with Saran Nghiem [3/4] finishing fourth and Emma Bartley [7/8] fifth.

Reigning champions Team England begins their European Under 19 Team Championships campaign tomorrow, Thursday 14 April with the finals scheduled for Sunday 17 April. For draws and results, visit European Squash.