BRUSSELS – The Romanian women have placed first after qualifications ahead of World silver medalist Russia.

Romania was able to pass Russia by staying consistent while Russia had uncharacteristic mistakes and breaks. Great Britain qualified in third.   

Russian Aliya Mustafina, who is coming back after an ACL injury at last year’s European Championships, underperformed due to her lack of training. She put up a solid score on vault but struggled on bars and had a fall on floor. The Russian team had tiny breaks on every apparatus which opened the door for Romania.

The Romanian women placed fourth at last year’s World Championships which is way their performance was a surprise for many. Even though the team had to count lower scores on uneven bars, they were the highest scoring team on vault with all three gymnasts posting scores in the low 15s. Their beam scores also helped them rise to the top spot, counting a 15.633 and a 15.733. They are led by three time Olympic gold medalist Catalina Ponor who made her comeback last year.

Great Britain has also made a push to the top three and has been in the rise since 2009. They are doing everything they can to have a strong showing at the London Olympics and their hard work is paying off.

 

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http://www.gymnastike.org/coverage/249318-2012-European-Championships

For more information about the event, please visit the official website here:

http://www.brusselsgymnastics2012.com/EN.aspx