Ashley_McKenzieNovember 3 - British Judo's performance operations manager Karen Roberts has praised her team after watching Great Britain return triumphant from the Swedish European Cup with a 10-medal haul, including five golds.

"It was a good level of event, attracting maximum entry, so we're pleased with producing such good performances," said Roberts.

"We acknowledge it wasn't a World Cup or Grand Slam but it's a good stepping stone for many players who are looking to move on to the next level and it's important for us to make winning a habit."

The eight-strong GB team, selected by head coach Patrick Roux, produced two gold medals and a bronze while a host of established internationals entered themselves and excelled in Scandinavia.

The in-form Ashley McKenzie (pictured) defeated France's Sylvain Goulet and Spaniard Raul Clemente by ippon before seeing off Israel's Ohad Idels by a waza-ari.

McKenzie, 21, who triumphed at the British Open in May and German European Cup in August, overcame Scot Graham Trinder to seal a final against Sweden's own Olle Sundstroem.

A single waza-ari was the difference as the London talent produced another fine gold medal-winning outing on the European circuit.

Britain's other gold medal winners were Megan Fletcher, Karina Bryant, Jan Gosiewski and Tom Reed.

Picture: Mike Varey