Sarah Sjostrom and Chad Le Clos Lead Energy Standard to Victory
Photo Credit: International Swimming League
Turkey-based Energy Standard booked their place in the International Swimming League final by winning the European derby at the hometown of London Roar. The English team still managed to secure a spot in the final, despite finishing second.
Energy Standard had a lead of 14 points at the end of Day 1 in London, making it difficult for London Roar to catch up on the final day. Captain Adam Peaty finished fourth in 50m breaststroke on the first day, or else London Roar could have been closer to their rivals going into the final day.
“Short course is difficult for me at times. You make a mistake in the 50m and you’re out of the game. I made two mistakes, maybe three and I am definitely out of the game. But it’s good for the sport and it’s good for me, it keeps me on my toes,” Peaty told Sports Gazette after the event.
At the same time, Energy Standard could have improved their lead, if one of their relay teams were not disqualified.
French swimmer Florent Manaudou said he was disappointed of the disqualification. “Relays and skins races are the best way to score a lot of points. I am really disappointed,” he said.
The narrow gap between the two leading teams made the fight for the first position more interesting on the second day of the derby.
After only a few races, London Roar took the lead as Adam Peaty got his revenge by winning the 100m breaststroke.
Team Iron won both men’s and women’s skins races with Vladimir Morozov and Ranomi Kromowidjojo bringing 54 points to their team. But Energy Standard had the last laugh as they took 42 points with second placements of Florent Manaudou and Sarah Sjostrom. It was enough for them to take the lead back from London Roar.
The English squad will have a chance to take their revenge on Energy Standard in Las Vegas where the two European teams will face LA Current and Cali Condors to decide who will be the inaugural ISL Champion.
“It’s a short course. Everyone has a chance to win. Anything can happen,” Peaty said.
