Kostner holds on to win despite fall in Tallinn

CAROLINA Kostner extended her overnight advantage to capture a third European title but the Italian's performance in Tallinn won't have the world's best quaking in their skates.

IN A SPIN: Italy's Carolina Kostner enjoys a welcome confidence boost three weeks before the Winter Olympics by claiming her third European crown (Getty Images)

Having scooped bronze at the Grand Prix Final last season, the 22-year failed to reach the event this term, after finishing sixth at the Cup of China and Trophee Eric Bompard in October.

And despite bouncing back to win both the short program and free skate in Estonia, the 2008 world silver medallist was far from her glittering best as she ducked out of a triple flip and fell on a triple loop.

But the Italian insisted lifting the trophy in Tallinn was the important thing and a major confidence boost ahead of the Vancouver Olympics in three weeks time.

"The competition has felt like liberation for me," said Kostner.

"I have gained so much confidence from the last couple of days and I know I'm back on the right path again.

"I feel like I've got nothing to fear from Vancouver."

Defending champion Laura Lepisto struck silver after Finnish teammate Kiira Korpi, who was lying second after the short program, could only manage a fifth in the free skate.

Meanwhile, Elene Gedevanishvili became the first ever Georgian medallist at the European Championships as she scooped bronze courtesy of a second place in the free skate.

Great Britain's Jenna McCorkell, whose preparation in Estonia was disrupted by illness, finished 14th overall after a 17th place in the free skate.