Rob Davies has won Britain’s second gold of the table tennis competition at the Paralympics.
Here’s that golden moment! That’s why @Robbie_TT is the world number 1! #TableTennis #Paralympics https://t.co/917SQ0n3Py
— Channel 4 (@Channel4) September 13, 2016
The Welshman beat Korea’s Joo Young Dae 3-1 (14-12, 4-11, 11-9, 11-5) to join Will Bayley on the top step of the podium.
Click here to read about Will Bayley’s medal success
Having waited almost two days since winning their semi-finals, the first game was nip and tuck throughout and ended with both men having two game point chances. Davies saved them at 9-10 and 11-12 and missed one at 11-10 and then took his second chance to put the first game on the board.
The second saw Joo start at a gallop, opening up a 7-0 lead before Davies got his first point. It meant the Korean had built up enough of an advantage to take it 11-4.
And Joo looked to be in charge of the third as his wicked backspin serve continued to cause Davies problems. But from 6-8 down, the GB athlete played a series of inspired points to lead 9-8 and then saw Joo, under pressure, put a serve into the net. Davies missed out on his first game point on his own serve, but took the second to stand one game from gold.
With the momentum behind him, Davies opened up a 4-0 lead in the fourth, prompting Joo to take his time-out. And after the score had advanced to 6-3 – Joo having won the last two points – it was Davies’ turn to consult his coach.
Only one of the next three points went to Davies but he then made his decisive move with four in a row to seal the gold.
Davies said:
“I’m not really sure what to think at the moment, it’s amazing.
“I can’t believe I kept it together, I have never beaten him before, I’ve only ever lost to him twice so to keep it together at the end was great.
“I’ve just got to thank so many people. I’ve been working so hard and it’s paid off today. I’m just really chuffed. I’ve got a gold medal for ParalympicsGB!
“My family and friends have been amazing. I hope my twin brother has enjoyed this too, I’ve done it for him. I’m getting married next year, that’s the next thing on the agenda.”