OLYMPICS LONDON 2012: Sheppard happy despite second-round exit

By Barrie White, , London 2012

GREAT Britain fencer Natalia Sheppard admitted that she was happy with her overall performance – despite a second-round exit at London 2012.

BATTLE OF BRITAIN: Natalia Sheppard and Sophie Troiano clash in first-round bout at Excel

Polish-born Sheppard lost 15-5 to fifth seed Corinne Maitrejean, from France, in the foil after she put out fellow Brit and training partner Sophie Troiano in her first bout at Excel.

But Bath-based Sheppard was just delighted to have competed in Great Britain’s colours at an Olympic Games and wished Maitrejean well.

“I actually think it was good,” she said.

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“There was some very strong fencing. The tactics that we discussed before the match didn’t quite work but she is amazing, so good luck to her.

“Fencing for Britain – wow, a once in a lifetime experience. It hasn’t sunk in yet, but in years to come it will feel amazing.”

Troiano, who lost 12-9 to Sheppard in the round of 64 was disappointed to have been drawn against a teammate, but will be now focusing on the team event.

“If I had been switched on at the start I might have done better,” said London-born Troiano, who confessed to being nervous.

“It’s never nice to draw a teammate but we always knew there was a chance we would meet each other.

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“It would be unnatural not to be nervous, it’s the greatest show on earth.

“My efforts are now going to be focused on the team event. We have a strong team and a good chance of doing well.”

Anna Bentley, from Aberdeen, also had an early exit after she lost 10-9 in overtime to Canada’s Monica Peterson, but felt she could have won.

The 31-year-old, who lives in London, was happy with the support of the crowd, but blamed nerves and a lack of a ruthless streak for her defeat.

She said: “The crowd really helped me at the start. I got nervous in the second period and let her back into the bout. It was fun, but it is no fun to lose”

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“She’s awkward to hit and leans over, so there is not much of a target to hit. But good luck to her, she’s a fighter.”