Hot favorites Denmark beat hosts and reigning champions Holland on Sunday to win the women's title of the European Badminton Teams Championships held in central Dutch city Almere.

 

World No. 9 Tine Rasmussen proved to be the more aggressive, easily defeating Judith Meulendijks in straight games to open the account for Denmark.

 

The hosts leveled the score at one apiece after Rachel Van Cutsen produced a courageous performance, downing Danish No. 2 Camilla Soerensen in three tight sets, 21-19, 19-21, 23-21.

 

In the second doubles rubber, Kamilla Juhl/Marie Roepke of Denmark conquered the Dutch pair of Yao Jie and Eefje Muskens in straight games, 21-12, 21-14.

 

In the fourth rubber, Danish No. 3 Nanna Brosolat had a see-saw encounter with Dutchwoman Karina De Wit, but eventually winning in three tough games to seal a great victory for Denmark.

 

In an earlier match on Sunday, Germany beat Scotland 3-1 to win the third place of the tournament, which kicked off Tuesday.

 

Denmark, Holland and Germany have also gained tickets to the final stages of the world teams championships scheduled for May in Jakarta, Indonesia.

 

(Xinhua News Agency February 18, 2008)