BRUSSELS - The final match between Eddy Merckx and Francis Forton, in the first BTS tournament of the season, in the Leopold in Brussels, had a thrilling finish. Eddy Merckx sealed victory in the shootout of the match beating Francis Foron in his own Brussels 3-2 from the penalty spots. The match itself ended 40-40 in 26 innings after Eddy Merckx had equalized with three.
The Leopold in Brussels hosted the first BTS meeting of the season. The GP Roger Clauws in Eeklo and the GP Salle d'Eau in Lier are the following two tournaments in the cycle.
Eddy Merckx recorded a strong series on his way to the final. The Belgian world class player defeated Roland Forthomme in the semifinals (40-28 in 21), Steven van Acker in the quarterfinals 40-20 in 29 and Peter Ceulemans in the eighth finals 40-22 in 21. Francis Forton paved his way to the final with wins over Kurt Ceulemans in the semifinals (40-32 in 40) and Jef Philipoom in the quarterfinals (40-25 in 26).
Tommy Raemdonck signed up for the highest run with 16. He was scheduled to play Frédéric Caudron in the sixteenth finals, but his opponent had to forfeit from the tournament.
Eddy Leppens was eliminated by Kenny Miatton 40-39 in 29, Roland Forthomme won in that round against Frédéric Mottet in the shootout. Kurt Ceulemans defeated Kenny Miatton in the quarterfinals 40-34.
Eddy Merckx on his way to the shootout in the match
Francis Forton, beaten from the spots after a strong performance