A THRILLING and classic Nations Cup competition in Falsterbo, Sweden, saw a strong Irish team take the runner-up spot behind The Netherlands to boost their standings in the overall European Division league.

It wasn’t all smooth sailing for the Dutch as they were reduced to a three-man team following the elimination of Michael Hendrix. The Irish team got off to the perfect start when Bertram Allen jumped clear when first into the ring with Gin Chin van Het Lindenhof, followed by a clear from Mark McAuley with Utchan de Belheme.