Whatever I thought about the final day of the World Championship, I could not have foreseen what actually transpired. Not sure if I should call it a historic day, but I think I will. What a rush!
[Bronze Medal Game]
Czech Republic versus Russia. I had expected to see these guys in the Gold Medal Game so was I disappointed? Yes. But I collected myself and decided that a Bronze would be great for the Russians too. Not that I dislike the Czechs or anthing. I like them. But I have a soft spot for Russia in my hockey heart that goes back to the days of the USSR. I could not tune in for the first two periods though and what a pitty that was! I certainly missed much of a very entertaining game, because as I joined the game in the third period my yaw hit the floor. It was 5-4 for the Czechs! First off all I would have rather seen it the other way around. Second of all, what was up? Were they playing some sort of fun exhibition game where they just let eachother score a few for fun's sake?! While I read up on the state of affairs of the first second periods, the Czechs scored again making it 6-4. They finished the game with an empty net goal and we ended up with the highest number of goals scored in a Bronze Medal game in, well, forever. In short:
♦ 7-4. That is a lot of goals ;)
♦ The Russians twice gave up a lead
♦ Both goalies were left hung out to dry
♦ Russians feel they made too many mistakes, but with a score like this, mistakes must have been rife on both sides
♦ Notable Czech player: Cervenka with a hatt trick
♦ Notable Russian player: Kovalchuck (nice one Kovi, who surpassed Ovi in scoring prowess for the Russians)
[Gold Medal Game]
Sweden versus Finland. A nice Nordic game. I was indifferent to the outcome of this game, although I must admit I had a slight preference for Sweden. I skipped the first two periods and by the time I joined the game it was second intermission and the score was an even 1-1. So I prepared myself for a dull third period. I could not have been more wrong. Just a few minutes into the third period the Finns scored and shortly after they scored again, making it 3-1. The Swedish coach called a time-out and I thought the Swedes would do one of their famous comebacks again, but instead the Finns were hungry for more goals and kept up the pressure. And I do not know why the Swedes collapsed like they did, but in the final 3.5 minutes of the game the Finns netted 3 more goals and quite frankly made the Swedish D look like a bunch of schoolgirls. There is something magical about a team that abandons all fears and just plays like there is no tomorrow and yes, the Finns made it look so easy. 6-1. That is some schooling. Well done Finns! Your energy and exuberance made me smile a big smile!
Well, that concludes a wonderful two weeks of international hockey. None of my favourites took home a medal, but that does not matter. Much! I saw many great games and what can I say, hockey is the best sport in the world. Can hardly wait for next year!
Showing posts with label IIHF World Championship. Show all posts
Showing posts with label IIHF World Championship. Show all posts
Sunday, 15 May 2011
Friday, 13 May 2011
IIHF World Championship | Day 14 & Day 15 | May 13th, 2011
Guys, the Blogger user interface was down for two days, keeping me from posting! *shakes an angry fist at Blogger*. I have had a lot of catching up to do. Will keep the IIHF WC overview short and sweet. Or maybe just short if it turns out to be a boring read lol
Day 14
[Finland-Norway] 4-1. Sad for my buddy Ferdinand, he is Norwegian and quite possibly the biggest Polar Bears fan in the world. I was at work, so I kept an eye on the score on the IIHF site. And when I saw that Norway had the first goal I was pleasantly surprised, but then Finland upped the ante and scored four goals, all in the second period. Norway had no response so they failed to beat the Finns for the 17th or so time.
[Canada-Russia] 1-2. This was a tough game for me. Historically speaking I will root for Canada over the USA, but I will root for Russia over Canada. This year so many of my Leafies were playing for Canada that I had a slight preference for Canada. I have not seen the game, but all reports are saying this was an awesome game. And a Twitter buddy of mine who was actually at the game sent several updates and was especially positive about the atmosphere in the arena and the great hockey played by these great hockey nations. So the Canada loss was harsh, but at the same times seeing Russia move on was splendid in its own right.
Day 15
[Czech Republic-Sweden] 2-5. After that awesome win over the USA, you would think the Czechs would bring that momentum to their next game. Instead they allowed the Swedes to dominate them. First period was a snoozefest but then the Swedes turned up the pressure and although the Czechs managed to score first, the Swedes simply outshot them leading to a lead at the end of the second period. And they kept it up in the final period, making it a rather huge 5-2 win.
[Finland-Russia] 3-0. Yes I know the Finns are a great team. But I really needed a bit of hockey happiness after a rough time as a fan. Flyers swept by the Bruins. The Red Wings nearly fought back to a series win after a 3-0 game deficit, but then lost Game 7. The Canadians got sent home by the Russians. Does a girl not deserve some hockey happiness? Probably not, because Russia got ousted. I watched the second period and a bit of the third. But after the 2-0 I gave up. I will normally watch any game, suffer the worst of losses, but today I just could not keep it up.
I hope that the Swedes clinch the gold on Sunday and if luck will have it I hope for a bronze medal for the Russians. Right now I need an Advil ;)
Day 14
[Finland-Norway] 4-1. Sad for my buddy Ferdinand, he is Norwegian and quite possibly the biggest Polar Bears fan in the world. I was at work, so I kept an eye on the score on the IIHF site. And when I saw that Norway had the first goal I was pleasantly surprised, but then Finland upped the ante and scored four goals, all in the second period. Norway had no response so they failed to beat the Finns for the 17th or so time.
[Canada-Russia] 1-2. This was a tough game for me. Historically speaking I will root for Canada over the USA, but I will root for Russia over Canada. This year so many of my Leafies were playing for Canada that I had a slight preference for Canada. I have not seen the game, but all reports are saying this was an awesome game. And a Twitter buddy of mine who was actually at the game sent several updates and was especially positive about the atmosphere in the arena and the great hockey played by these great hockey nations. So the Canada loss was harsh, but at the same times seeing Russia move on was splendid in its own right.
Day 15
[Czech Republic-Sweden] 2-5. After that awesome win over the USA, you would think the Czechs would bring that momentum to their next game. Instead they allowed the Swedes to dominate them. First period was a snoozefest but then the Swedes turned up the pressure and although the Czechs managed to score first, the Swedes simply outshot them leading to a lead at the end of the second period. And they kept it up in the final period, making it a rather huge 5-2 win.
[Finland-Russia] 3-0. Yes I know the Finns are a great team. But I really needed a bit of hockey happiness after a rough time as a fan. Flyers swept by the Bruins. The Red Wings nearly fought back to a series win after a 3-0 game deficit, but then lost Game 7. The Canadians got sent home by the Russians. Does a girl not deserve some hockey happiness? Probably not, because Russia got ousted. I watched the second period and a bit of the third. But after the 2-0 I gave up. I will normally watch any game, suffer the worst of losses, but today I just could not keep it up.
I hope that the Swedes clinch the gold on Sunday and if luck will have it I hope for a bronze medal for the Russians. Right now I need an Advil ;)
IIHF World Championship | Roster Upgrades | May 13th, 2011
Yesterday it was just a rumour but TSN reports that Datsyuk will indeed join the Russian team. Bykov apparently kept a spot open just in case the Red Wings would not make it past the Semis.
Bad news for the Wings, but I will enjoy seeing Datsyuk play for Russia! But we need to be realistic here, the Russians must first beat the Finns I mean, would he fly over for the Bronze medal game? Probably, but a Golden medal game would be more awesome.
Bad news for the Wings, but I will enjoy seeing Datsyuk play for Russia! But we need to be realistic here, the Russians must first beat the Finns I mean, would he fly over for the Bronze medal game? Probably, but a Golden medal game would be more awesome.
IIHF World Championship | Day 13 | May 11th, 2011
Just a quick round up of the day. Day 13. It sure was a bad luck day for two of the teams. Really? Team USA? Really? Read on.
[Czech Republic-USA] 4-0. Jagr. What a hockey deity! They guy is twice the age of some rookies, but still plays top-notch hockey. And today he led the Czechs to a shut-out victory, with a hat trick! Mike Komisarek gave the reporters some spin about how the team is young and lacks the international experience, but come on, we all expected them to better than this right? I am OK with the Czech win though. I think we may be looking at the Champions here. Eventhough Canada are still my personal faves. But I could live with the Czechs claiming the title.
And then Blogger went down for two days and ate this article! They rerolled it all and got me back this article in draft form. But missing half of it! What did I write about the other game?
[Sweden-Germany] 5-2. Germany started unlucky this Day 13 by allowing a first goal in the first minute. I hear you think 'Why is this unluck? It happens often'. You are right, but does it happen twice in a row that the first goal was not scored by the opponent but in fact by your very own D-man? Indeed, that is rotten luck. I am not sure if there is a way to practice on avoiding this, but if so, extra training might be called for! The German had a rough first period and the third was not much better. In fact, as soon as the Swedes scored yet another goal all the fighting spirit the German still had simply left. My German buddy Sven said they sure gave it their best shot, but in the end the Swedes were simply better.
[Czech Republic-USA] 4-0. Jagr. What a hockey deity! They guy is twice the age of some rookies, but still plays top-notch hockey. And today he led the Czechs to a shut-out victory, with a hat trick! Mike Komisarek gave the reporters some spin about how the team is young and lacks the international experience, but come on, we all expected them to better than this right? I am OK with the Czech win though. I think we may be looking at the Champions here. Eventhough Canada are still my personal faves. But I could live with the Czechs claiming the title.
And then Blogger went down for two days and ate this article! They rerolled it all and got me back this article in draft form. But missing half of it! What did I write about the other game?
[Sweden-Germany] 5-2. Germany started unlucky this Day 13 by allowing a first goal in the first minute. I hear you think 'Why is this unluck? It happens often'. You are right, but does it happen twice in a row that the first goal was not scored by the opponent but in fact by your very own D-man? Indeed, that is rotten luck. I am not sure if there is a way to practice on avoiding this, but if so, extra training might be called for! The German had a rough first period and the third was not much better. In fact, as soon as the Swedes scored yet another goal all the fighting spirit the German still had simply left. My German buddy Sven said they sure gave it their best shot, but in the end the Swedes were simply better.
Tuesday, 10 May 2011
IIHF World Championship | Day 12 | May 10th, 2011
A night without hockey now seems very boring. With the Championship coming to a close soon, I better get used to it. Not to mention I have nothing much to write about for Day 12. I even tried to involve some friends, trying to figure out what one does on days like these, but we did not get much further than:
Artyukhin is a mean mother ... watch your language! ... hockey player. But with some polishing would not mind having him on the Flyers ;)
Team USA is underperforming. Why? If nothing else, you would think they would do it for honour
Finnish hockey commentators (or maybe it was just one, hard to tell) are very crazy. The way they get into things gives me a heart attack, probably even more so because I have no idea what the hell they are talking about
The IIHF site is a dark, evil dungeon that makes it almost impossible to find useful data, such as an overview of the standings. Sure it is there and eventually I found it with some help, but it is nuts how they hide one of the most important aspects of the tournament ;)
Finland sent in the worst ever entry to the Eurovision. The dude cannot sing at all. Beware of a dude call Paradise Oskar singing Da Da Dam. What? Wait! Paradise Oskar? No bloody wonder. Wonder how well he will do, the show is that crazy that even the most awful songs can come out on top. But I digress again, back to hockey ... at least the Finnish hockey squad is alright ;)
Thankfully we will have hockey tomorrow! Yay!
*goes back to watching some awful singing, dreaming of hockey*
- working
- managing a boys football (aka soccer in some regions of this world) team
- testing a cryo-chamber (must find out more about this)
- eat a lot, and
- like me, watching the Eurovision Song Contest lol
Polar Bears is the nickname for the Norwegian team. And that also explains why one my FB mates has many a photo of himself in a bear suit :D
Artyukhin is a mean mother ... watch your language! ... hockey player. But with some polishing would not mind having him on the Flyers ;)
Team USA is underperforming. Why? If nothing else, you would think they would do it for honour
Finnish hockey commentators (or maybe it was just one, hard to tell) are very crazy. The way they get into things gives me a heart attack, probably even more so because I have no idea what the hell they are talking about
The IIHF site is a dark, evil dungeon that makes it almost impossible to find useful data, such as an overview of the standings. Sure it is there and eventually I found it with some help, but it is nuts how they hide one of the most important aspects of the tournament ;)
Finland sent in the worst ever entry to the Eurovision. The dude cannot sing at all. Beware of a dude call Paradise Oskar singing Da Da Dam. What? Wait! Paradise Oskar? No bloody wonder. Wonder how well he will do, the show is that crazy that even the most awful songs can come out on top. But I digress again, back to hockey ... at least the Finnish hockey squad is alright ;)
Thankfully we will have hockey tomorrow! Yay!
*goes back to watching some awful singing, dreaming of hockey*
Monday, 9 May 2011
IIHF World Championship | Day 11 | May 9th, 2011
A busy schedule today and it started bright and early with two games at 12.15 my time. A lunch-time-game? Sounds a bit uncommon considering it is a Monday. But OK, I watched the scoreboard on the IIHF site. And a Twitter-buddy was actually at the Slovakia-Denmark game and fed us with nice updates.
[Slovakia-Denmark] 4-1. Scoring was started by the Danes, but before the end of the first period, Strumpel and Satan had scored for Slovakia, giving them a 2-1 advantage going into the second period. Second period started strong for the Slovaks as well. Satan had some cool scoring opportunities and managed to get himself in a fight as well. OK, that is not really surprising ;) The second period went without goals, but in the third the Slovakia scored two more (Zednik and Hossa!). I for one am glad they at least ended the tournament on a positive note! And I should mention that the Danes had a lot of PPs in the third too which the Slovaks effectively killed off.
[France-Norway] 2-5. Well, it was the longest of all long shots, but a France win and a USA loss were what the Swiss - one of my personal faves - needed to move on the Quarter Finals. So I was looking closely at the France game. With Norway having an alright but not perfect tournament I though perhaps the French would try to redeem themselves a bit before going home. But yeah, the long shot was too long and the Norwegians dealt with the French decisively and in the process clinched their own spot in the Quarter Finals. Well done guys!
[Russia-Finland] 2-3. Had to go all the way to SO. Neither team looked spectacular in the third period and frankly, the OT was a waste of time too. Finns dominated the SO, it feels like the Russians did not even try to score. I had expected to see a bit more from these guys. But according to the IIHF report, the first period was excellent for Russia, with lots of hitting by Artyukhin and good scoring opportunities, but of course I missed that one *sighs*
[Switzerland-USA] 5-3. Well blimey. The Swiss finally found their scoring mojo. If only France had done the same earlier and defeated Norway, then the Swiss would have made it to the Quarter Finals. But it was all a bit too late. It was however, a nice way to redeem themselves a bit and beating the States always looks good on a resumé ;) ... Team USA tried to fight back in the final period and my boy JVR scored a goal to make it a one-goal game. But in the final minutes the Swiss scored an empty-netter, winning this game with a cool 5-3.
[Canada-Sweden] 3-2. My choice for tonight. It was a nice game to watch, nice pace, cool rushes, good saves. Not a big score and not the most spectacular game ever, but it was quite alright. And I am happy because Canada won :)
[Germany-Czech Republic] 2-5. The Germans started this tournament so strongly, so this game is hardly one they will want to remember. I did not watch this game, so I hoped for some input from my German buddy Sven, but he was too mad to talk about this game. Guess that says it all really! The Czechs had a walk in the park, having a bit of a pre-Quarter Finals practice. Oh wait, Sven decided to help me out anyways: "Czechs were better and Germany took too many penalties. Germany also had a bit of bad luck: first Czech goal was an goal in own net by Krüger. Second one flipped from Holzer's leg into the goal and another one was blocked by Nicolai Goc and that was a perfect assist for Plekanec." Ah see, it was not all bad! And thanks for your input Sven!
I am ready for the Quarter Finals. You too?
[Slovakia-Denmark] 4-1. Scoring was started by the Danes, but before the end of the first period, Strumpel and Satan had scored for Slovakia, giving them a 2-1 advantage going into the second period. Second period started strong for the Slovaks as well. Satan had some cool scoring opportunities and managed to get himself in a fight as well. OK, that is not really surprising ;) The second period went without goals, but in the third the Slovakia scored two more (Zednik and Hossa!). I for one am glad they at least ended the tournament on a positive note! And I should mention that the Danes had a lot of PPs in the third too which the Slovaks effectively killed off.
[France-Norway] 2-5. Well, it was the longest of all long shots, but a France win and a USA loss were what the Swiss - one of my personal faves - needed to move on the Quarter Finals. So I was looking closely at the France game. With Norway having an alright but not perfect tournament I though perhaps the French would try to redeem themselves a bit before going home. But yeah, the long shot was too long and the Norwegians dealt with the French decisively and in the process clinched their own spot in the Quarter Finals. Well done guys!
[Russia-Finland] 2-3. Had to go all the way to SO. Neither team looked spectacular in the third period and frankly, the OT was a waste of time too. Finns dominated the SO, it feels like the Russians did not even try to score. I had expected to see a bit more from these guys. But according to the IIHF report, the first period was excellent for Russia, with lots of hitting by Artyukhin and good scoring opportunities, but of course I missed that one *sighs*
[Switzerland-USA] 5-3. Well blimey. The Swiss finally found their scoring mojo. If only France had done the same earlier and defeated Norway, then the Swiss would have made it to the Quarter Finals. But it was all a bit too late. It was however, a nice way to redeem themselves a bit and beating the States always looks good on a resumé ;) ... Team USA tried to fight back in the final period and my boy JVR scored a goal to make it a one-goal game. But in the final minutes the Swiss scored an empty-netter, winning this game with a cool 5-3.
[Canada-Sweden] 3-2. My choice for tonight. It was a nice game to watch, nice pace, cool rushes, good saves. Not a big score and not the most spectacular game ever, but it was quite alright. And I am happy because Canada won :)
[Germany-Czech Republic] 2-5. The Germans started this tournament so strongly, so this game is hardly one they will want to remember. I did not watch this game, so I hoped for some input from my German buddy Sven, but he was too mad to talk about this game. Guess that says it all really! The Czechs had a walk in the park, having a bit of a pre-Quarter Finals practice. Oh wait, Sven decided to help me out anyways: "Czechs were better and Germany took too many penalties. Germany also had a bit of bad luck: first Czech goal was an goal in own net by Krüger. Second one flipped from Holzer's leg into the goal and another one was blocked by Nicolai Goc and that was a perfect assist for Plekanec." Ah see, it was not all bad! And thanks for your input Sven!
I am ready for the Quarter Finals. You too?
Sunday, 8 May 2011
IIHF World Championship | Day 10 | May 8th, 2011
My hockey week is shit! Pardon the expression, but it is. Why must Russia and Switzerland add to my hockey sorrow? Oh well, Russia is still in the running, but the Swiss are pretty much out of the race.
[Czech Republic-Russia] 3-2. I managed to catch bits and pieces of this game. Was at my parents' place for Mother's Day, so could not sneak away for too long to watch hockey ;) ... but what I saw was gritty, aggresive, intense, almost emotional mixed up with moments of the complete opposite. Weird game. And it is never right when one guy stands out for aggresive behaviour. Quoting Jaromir Jagr on Yevgeni Artyukhin: "He’s just a huge guy. It’s tough to stop him when he wants to hit somebody, because he’s like a huge monster coming after you. One [hit] was pretty bad because our guy didn’t have the puck." I admit this guy is rough lol ... but would not mind him on my Flyers, with a bit of polish ;)
[Sweden-Switzerland] 2-0. *sighs* I like the way the Swiss play, so why do they forget how to be offensive when it really matters? Sweden have qualified for the Quarter Finals and the Swiss have a tiny sliver of hope, but lets face it, it is not going to happen for them. Again. I tried to figure out what scenario they would need, but the standings and schedules have been set up so awkwardly on the IIHF site that I let this endeavour go. If someone has it figured out, please leave me a note lol {edit: Sven figured it out, thanks ... the Swiss would have to beat the USA, and Norway would have to lose to France ... sounds impossible!}
[Slovenia-Belarus] 1-7. Poor Slovenia. That was some ass-kicking they suffered and with a score like this it is not hard to tell who dominated ;) This was one of the two Relegation Round finals. Basically it was who wins stays, who loses drops to Division I. And lets just say Belarus safeguarded their spot in the Top Division with some fury ;) ... as for Slovenia, well not even sure if Anze Kopitar could have saved them, but I am sure his presence would have helped the Slovenians along. Back to Division I for them, but it was a good run.
[Latvia-Austria] 4-1. Another pretty conclusive score in the second Relegation Round final. Could not find a stream for this one, nor for the other game, so just summing up a few things I have read: Latvia was the more accomplished team, creating chances, whereas Austria had very little scoring chances. Which is much in keeping with the rest of their tournament.
Tomorrow a busy sked. Six games and it is as if everyone is playing lol ... will be scorewatching at work, it is crazy to have very early games on a Monday! So finally I get to watch a tournament with some normal European times and they still manage to make it impossible for me to watch ;)
[Czech Republic-Russia] 3-2. I managed to catch bits and pieces of this game. Was at my parents' place for Mother's Day, so could not sneak away for too long to watch hockey ;) ... but what I saw was gritty, aggresive, intense, almost emotional mixed up with moments of the complete opposite. Weird game. And it is never right when one guy stands out for aggresive behaviour. Quoting Jaromir Jagr on Yevgeni Artyukhin: "He’s just a huge guy. It’s tough to stop him when he wants to hit somebody, because he’s like a huge monster coming after you. One [hit] was pretty bad because our guy didn’t have the puck." I admit this guy is rough lol ... but would not mind him on my Flyers, with a bit of polish ;)
[Sweden-Switzerland] 2-0. *sighs* I like the way the Swiss play, so why do they forget how to be offensive when it really matters? Sweden have qualified for the Quarter Finals and the Swiss have a tiny sliver of hope, but lets face it, it is not going to happen for them. Again. I tried to figure out what scenario they would need, but the standings and schedules have been set up so awkwardly on the IIHF site that I let this endeavour go. If someone has it figured out, please leave me a note lol {edit: Sven figured it out, thanks ... the Swiss would have to beat the USA, and Norway would have to lose to France ... sounds impossible!}
[Slovenia-Belarus] 1-7. Poor Slovenia. That was some ass-kicking they suffered and with a score like this it is not hard to tell who dominated ;) This was one of the two Relegation Round finals. Basically it was who wins stays, who loses drops to Division I. And lets just say Belarus safeguarded their spot in the Top Division with some fury ;) ... as for Slovenia, well not even sure if Anze Kopitar could have saved them, but I am sure his presence would have helped the Slovenians along. Back to Division I for them, but it was a good run.
[Latvia-Austria] 4-1. Another pretty conclusive score in the second Relegation Round final. Could not find a stream for this one, nor for the other game, so just summing up a few things I have read: Latvia was the more accomplished team, creating chances, whereas Austria had very little scoring chances. Which is much in keeping with the rest of their tournament.
Tomorrow a busy sked. Six games and it is as if everyone is playing lol ... will be scorewatching at work, it is crazy to have very early games on a Monday! So finally I get to watch a tournament with some normal European times and they still manage to make it impossible for me to watch ;)
Saturday, 7 May 2011
IIHF World Championship | Day 9 | May 7th, 2011
Still reeling from last night's Playoffs shenanigans, but was ready for some World Championship action and I just finished watching Norway-Canada. It was like a little band-aid for the hurt hockey soul ;) *exit dramatics*
Anyways, here today's round-up!
[Austria-Slovenia] 3-2. Austria manages to win one and makes the last game of the Relegation Round exciting. The two teams that win their next game will earn their stay in the top division. Fun when teams fight like that.
[Belarus-Latvia] 3-6. A haphazzard World Championship for both countries. Win a few lose a few, no real consistency in sight. But hey, a game with this many goals is always fun. And the upside is that because Austria won as well, tomorrow's final games of the Relegation Round will be truly exciting as each team can either win a stay in next year's World Cup or be relegated to the First Division.
[Denmark-Germany] 4-3. Germany already qualified for the next round, so this outcome is acceptable for them. And although the Danes managed to win this one, their World Cup is over as they needed a regulation win to stay in the running. Instead this game went all the way to SO and we have seen the last couple of games that the Danes keep their cool in this situation and can turn it to their advantage.
[Norway-Canada] 2-3. I watched this one and I must admit that it was a nice soothing game. Canada was playing a calm and collected game and halfway through the third period the score was 3-0. Then the Norwegians woke up and increased pressure and suddenly this turned into a game again! At 51:36 the score was 3-1. At 52:49 it was 3-2 and I must admit that I sat up a bit straighter and got just a tad anxious. But the Canadians hung in there and have secured their spot in the Quarter Finals! Yay!
[Finland-Slovakia] 2-1. Chose to watch this one over USA-France, thinking it would be the more exciting of the two. Well, two periods into the game, a 1-0 lead for the Slovaks and I was bored so much I continued writing this article rather than concentrating on the game. At some point in the third period the players started to skate a bit faster, there was more puck movement and what do you know? The Finns scored, twice in succesion, to clinch the win and their place in the Quarter Finals. Oh, both goals were scored by Ruutu. And the Slovaks had dreams of medals and what not but it was not meant to be. The sad faces of the Slovak fans were making me go 'Awwwwww' :(
[USA-France] 3-2. Hmm, not much to report here. Some crazy reporting going on and I cannot make much sense of it. A 3-2 win over France does not sound very commanding to me, but the IIFH site suggests that the French were outclassed by far. I feel like shrugging a bit. And as I type this the Flyers tweet that JVR will be joining Team USA. Sounds like an excellent idea, they can use some offensive power! But OK, the French have no chance at moving on to the Quarter Finals and can start packing. Team USA has plenty of opportunity and I hope they take it.
Tomorrow my faves are playing - Russia and Switzerland - I hope they will win their respective games :) ... and I hope to see Ovi in good spirits!
Anyways, here today's round-up!
[Austria-Slovenia] 3-2. Austria manages to win one and makes the last game of the Relegation Round exciting. The two teams that win their next game will earn their stay in the top division. Fun when teams fight like that.
[Belarus-Latvia] 3-6. A haphazzard World Championship for both countries. Win a few lose a few, no real consistency in sight. But hey, a game with this many goals is always fun. And the upside is that because Austria won as well, tomorrow's final games of the Relegation Round will be truly exciting as each team can either win a stay in next year's World Cup or be relegated to the First Division.
[Denmark-Germany] 4-3. Germany already qualified for the next round, so this outcome is acceptable for them. And although the Danes managed to win this one, their World Cup is over as they needed a regulation win to stay in the running. Instead this game went all the way to SO and we have seen the last couple of games that the Danes keep their cool in this situation and can turn it to their advantage.
[Norway-Canada] 2-3. I watched this one and I must admit that it was a nice soothing game. Canada was playing a calm and collected game and halfway through the third period the score was 3-0. Then the Norwegians woke up and increased pressure and suddenly this turned into a game again! At 51:36 the score was 3-1. At 52:49 it was 3-2 and I must admit that I sat up a bit straighter and got just a tad anxious. But the Canadians hung in there and have secured their spot in the Quarter Finals! Yay!
[Finland-Slovakia] 2-1. Chose to watch this one over USA-France, thinking it would be the more exciting of the two. Well, two periods into the game, a 1-0 lead for the Slovaks and I was bored so much I continued writing this article rather than concentrating on the game. At some point in the third period the players started to skate a bit faster, there was more puck movement and what do you know? The Finns scored, twice in succesion, to clinch the win and their place in the Quarter Finals. Oh, both goals were scored by Ruutu. And the Slovaks had dreams of medals and what not but it was not meant to be. The sad faces of the Slovak fans were making me go 'Awwwwww' :(
[USA-France] 3-2. Hmm, not much to report here. Some crazy reporting going on and I cannot make much sense of it. A 3-2 win over France does not sound very commanding to me, but the IIFH site suggests that the French were outclassed by far. I feel like shrugging a bit. And as I type this the Flyers tweet that JVR will be joining Team USA. Sounds like an excellent idea, they can use some offensive power! But OK, the French have no chance at moving on to the Quarter Finals and can start packing. Team USA has plenty of opportunity and I hope they take it.
Tomorrow my faves are playing - Russia and Switzerland - I hope they will win their respective games :) ... and I hope to see Ovi in good spirits!
Friday, 6 May 2011
IIHF World Championship | Day 8 | May 6th, 2011
Guys, did not get around to watch any of today's games, so really just a quick update so I have all the days covered when I read this back in a while :)
[Germany-Finland] 4-5. Whoa, the first loss for Germany this tournament. But against the Finns who of course have a repute to protect. But the reports tell me the Finns had no walk in the park and had some goaltending issues. And the game had to go all the way to SO to be decided so there is no shame in losing for the Germans. Plus I learnt something today: a player can appear twice in the SO lol ... did not know that, or is it an IIHF rule only? If - unlike me - you do have a clue, please drop me a comment about this!
[Canada-USA] 4-3. Ahhh the good old rivalry. I remember many a Winter Olympics with these two teams headlining *nods reverently*. But this Team USA hardly sets my heart aflutter, whereas Team Canada sports some of my fave NHL Players and is looking pretty good out there. I was not sure what to expect. But we got pace, hits, goals and it went all the way to SO. Speaking of hits, Dion had a big one heheh. If I find it somewhere I will add it for enjoyment! Anyways, in SO Eberle scored as well as ♥ Rick Nash ♥ ... so from my point of view ... good stuff and I am sorry I had to miss it :(
[Czech Republic-Slovakia] 3-2. The Czechs are on a nice roll as they notch down another win. Our NHL-buddies Elias and Havlat did great for the Czech Republic with various assists and goals. And on the whole this must have been an interesting game by the looks of it, with both teams generating chances. In the end the Czechs clinched it and they are looking good.
[Sweden-France] 4-0. Nothing like a a three-goal lead in the first period to kill the opponent's will. It takes a strong team to get back from such a tough start and the French just were not cut out for it. The Swedes simply dominated and smoothly sailed through this one.
Just checked the sked for tomorrow and how we are going to make it through the day, I do not know! Six games tomorrow you crazy hockey fans!
[Germany-Finland] 4-5. Whoa, the first loss for Germany this tournament. But against the Finns who of course have a repute to protect. But the reports tell me the Finns had no walk in the park and had some goaltending issues. And the game had to go all the way to SO to be decided so there is no shame in losing for the Germans. Plus I learnt something today: a player can appear twice in the SO lol ... did not know that, or is it an IIHF rule only? If - unlike me - you do have a clue, please drop me a comment about this!
[Canada-USA] 4-3. Ahhh the good old rivalry. I remember many a Winter Olympics with these two teams headlining *nods reverently*. But this Team USA hardly sets my heart aflutter, whereas Team Canada sports some of my fave NHL Players and is looking pretty good out there. I was not sure what to expect. But we got pace, hits, goals and it went all the way to SO. Speaking of hits, Dion had a big one heheh. If I find it somewhere I will add it for enjoyment! Anyways, in SO Eberle scored as well as ♥ Rick Nash ♥ ... so from my point of view ... good stuff and I am sorry I had to miss it :(
[Czech Republic-Slovakia] 3-2. The Czechs are on a nice roll as they notch down another win. Our NHL-buddies Elias and Havlat did great for the Czech Republic with various assists and goals. And on the whole this must have been an interesting game by the looks of it, with both teams generating chances. In the end the Czechs clinched it and they are looking good.
[Sweden-France] 4-0. Nothing like a a three-goal lead in the first period to kill the opponent's will. It takes a strong team to get back from such a tough start and the French just were not cut out for it. The Swedes simply dominated and smoothly sailed through this one.
Just checked the sked for tomorrow and how we are going to make it through the day, I do not know! Six games tomorrow you crazy hockey fans!
IIHF World Championship | Roster Upgrades | May 6th, 2011
So the teams are allowed to add two more players to the roster. So a quick look tells me ...
♦ Canada adds Vermette of the Blue Jackets. OK.
♦ USA adds Jack Campbell of the Windsor Spitfires. Who?
♦ Russia adds Ovi.
So looking at the list above ... who else had to laugh at the American addition? lol
Click here for the full article on the IIFC site!
♦ Canada adds Vermette of the Blue Jackets. OK.
♦ USA adds Jack Campbell of the Windsor Spitfires. Who?
♦ Russia adds Ovi.
So looking at the list above ... who else had to laugh at the American addition? lol
Click here for the full article on the IIFC site!
Thursday, 5 May 2011
IIHF World Championship | Day 7 | May 5th, 2011
Today I could not decide on an evening game to watch, so I ended up watching bits of both Russia vs Denmark and Switzerland vs Norway.
[Slovenia-Latvia] 5-2. Relegation Round. This is the first time Slovenia beat Latvia on a World Championship! And by no meager numbers either, while in previous meetings the Slovenians hardly got to score a goal. They were eager, while Latvia was playing a bit under par. Jeglic thought it may have to do with the fact that the Latvians had not anticipated to play in the Relegation Round in the first place. Whatever the case, the Slovenians took a right step in the direction of staying in the top division today.
[Belarus-Austria] 7-2. Relegation Round. In the Preliminary Round Belarus hardly managed to score at all, so it was a big relief to the guys to finally get going and net some pucks! My Leafie Grabovski also scored and all in all the guys played a relaxed, loose game. That is probably the ticket to wins as it is. The minute a team gets too nervous the flow sort of stagnates. So glad to see Belarus got their groove back.
[Russia-Denmark] 4-3. Although the Russians found themselves trailing 2-1 after the first period, in the end it was a smooth game for them. They recovered in the second period by adding two goals to the scoreboard and in the third period they made it 4-2. The Danes tried to get back into the game and after a bit of effort managed to score to make it 4-3. But honestly, the Russians did not even put in very much effort. They just seemed very much in control. And I am thinking that maybe at times they did not even take this game too seriously ;) ... cause I witnessed some fun and playful moves towards the end. Afinogenov went behind the goal, then chipped the puck over the goal to a teammate in front of the Danish goalie and said Russian tried to bat it in ... did not work out, but it was fun to see!
[Switzerland-Norway] 3-2. Qualification Round. I missed the first period, but tuned in for the second and I was disappointed for two reasons. First of all, I like Norway, but during the Spengler Cup I grew a liking to the Swiss teams attending. They played a fast, action-packed game. So I was hoping to see the Swiss do well, but instead they were trailing. And second of all, it was a boring game! The Swiss did not show the enthusiams I was expecting and the Norwegians seemed happy with how things were going and hardly did anything to make it a more exciting game. So I switched to Russia-Denmark instead. But there you have it, Norway kept the lead and is looking good in terms of points!
Interesting games tomorrow. Especially looking forward to Canada-USA! And I wonder how Germany will fare against the Finns. Exciting times I hope!
[Slovenia-Latvia] 5-2. Relegation Round. This is the first time Slovenia beat Latvia on a World Championship! And by no meager numbers either, while in previous meetings the Slovenians hardly got to score a goal. They were eager, while Latvia was playing a bit under par. Jeglic thought it may have to do with the fact that the Latvians had not anticipated to play in the Relegation Round in the first place. Whatever the case, the Slovenians took a right step in the direction of staying in the top division today.
[Belarus-Austria] 7-2. Relegation Round. In the Preliminary Round Belarus hardly managed to score at all, so it was a big relief to the guys to finally get going and net some pucks! My Leafie Grabovski also scored and all in all the guys played a relaxed, loose game. That is probably the ticket to wins as it is. The minute a team gets too nervous the flow sort of stagnates. So glad to see Belarus got their groove back.
[Russia-Denmark] 4-3. Although the Russians found themselves trailing 2-1 after the first period, in the end it was a smooth game for them. They recovered in the second period by adding two goals to the scoreboard and in the third period they made it 4-2. The Danes tried to get back into the game and after a bit of effort managed to score to make it 4-3. But honestly, the Russians did not even put in very much effort. They just seemed very much in control. And I am thinking that maybe at times they did not even take this game too seriously ;) ... cause I witnessed some fun and playful moves towards the end. Afinogenov went behind the goal, then chipped the puck over the goal to a teammate in front of the Danish goalie and said Russian tried to bat it in ... did not work out, but it was fun to see!
[Switzerland-Norway] 3-2. Qualification Round. I missed the first period, but tuned in for the second and I was disappointed for two reasons. First of all, I like Norway, but during the Spengler Cup I grew a liking to the Swiss teams attending. They played a fast, action-packed game. So I was hoping to see the Swiss do well, but instead they were trailing. And second of all, it was a boring game! The Swiss did not show the enthusiams I was expecting and the Norwegians seemed happy with how things were going and hardly did anything to make it a more exciting game. So I switched to Russia-Denmark instead. But there you have it, Norway kept the lead and is looking good in terms of points!
Interesting games tomorrow. Especially looking forward to Canada-USA! And I wonder how Germany will fare against the Finns. Exciting times I hope!
Wednesday, 4 May 2011
IIHF World Championship | Day 6 | May 4th, 2011
Almost bedtime here, but I had another fun hockey night. Here a write up of today's World Cup action.
[Denmark-Latvia] 3-2. That settled it. The Danes are on to the Qualification Round and the Latvians are headed for the Relegation Round. That is the third time since they joined the Top Division in 1997 and each time they survived. Back to the game. It seemed to be an even game and the end result could have gone either way. Nothing like a shoot-out to test your luck. Although the Danes were a bit more confident as they had won a few exhibition games that went to SO, maybe that really did help.
[Austria-Norway] 0-5. WHOP! That was a whopping result for the Norwegians aka Polar Bears. Cute nickname that. Although they may not appreciate the fact I called them cute. Anyways, I did not know about the 'Polar Bears' till today, but it sure explains why a buddy of mine wears a white bear costume to games lolol ... I assumed it had something to do with the cold and ice and snow, so I never asked. But yeah, things make sense now. Said buddy probably was at that game today. Lets just assume he will partying all evening. Anyways, the Norwegian are safe in the Qualification Round and the Austrians will have to fight for survival in the Relegation Round.
[Finland-Czech Republic] 1-2. I am learning new things about international hockey everyday. Apparently these two countries have a bit of an international rivalry going on and often the games are close with only little scoring. I have not seen this game so I will trust the report is correct and that this was a very physical and tough game with both sides taking lots of penalties. Fun bit: Pavelec was very close to a shut-out, but the Finns scored with just 20 seconds left on the clock (6 on 5). Hahah, so close!
[Sweden-USA] 6-2. Watched this game tonight and it was awesome. The first period was interesting enough with the Swedes building pressure and firing a lot of shots at Al Montoya, who bless him, was great. And a bit unexpectedly Team USA equalised on a PP with a bit over a minute to go. The Swedes were great to watch, great skating, great skills. Then the second period started and Montoya went on to disprove my comment about him being great. Basically he mucked up. He was skating behind the goal, trying to keep the puck in the game, but instead of getting rid of it properly, some Swedish guy called Kruger stole the puck and scored, pretty much an empty-netter ;) ... and for the rest of the period the Swedes were on a roll as Mattias Sjogren and Patrik Berglund scored to make it 4-1. The third period did not start very sparkly at all. I was expecting the USA to crank up the speed and start pressuring for a goal, but it was all a bit lacklustre and even the PP the USA had halfway through was played without any real energy. After the PP the Swedes actually upped the pressure a bit with a few good shots at the goal. And just as I was least expecting it, Team USA struck and Wheeler netted one for the USA. With the game against Norway still fresh in mind where they came back from a 2-0 deficit I thought we might be in for some last period fireworks. And we were! But it was the Swedes who made it happen. Where USA failed to pick up speed, Sweden did bring it and they scored two more goals to make it a huge 6-2 win. Ouch Team USA, splendid job by Sweden. Oh, it was also the most physical game I have personally seen at this World Cup, lots of skermishes and fistycuffs and at one point even one of the refs joined in and totally ninja'd a Swedish player. Hopefully someone will eventually upload a vid so I can add it. It amused me!
And I must share this. Some reporter on the IIHF.com site wrote: "The bigger Swedes played a physical, aggressive game that bothered the Americans much of the night." Right. In what universe do some hard as steel NHL/AHL players have issues with a physical and aggresive opponent? *shakes head*
[Denmark-Latvia] 3-2. That settled it. The Danes are on to the Qualification Round and the Latvians are headed for the Relegation Round. That is the third time since they joined the Top Division in 1997 and each time they survived. Back to the game. It seemed to be an even game and the end result could have gone either way. Nothing like a shoot-out to test your luck. Although the Danes were a bit more confident as they had won a few exhibition games that went to SO, maybe that really did help.
[Austria-Norway] 0-5. WHOP! That was a whopping result for the Norwegians aka Polar Bears. Cute nickname that. Although they may not appreciate the fact I called them cute. Anyways, I did not know about the 'Polar Bears' till today, but it sure explains why a buddy of mine wears a white bear costume to games lolol ... I assumed it had something to do with the cold and ice and snow, so I never asked. But yeah, things make sense now. Said buddy probably was at that game today. Lets just assume he will partying all evening. Anyways, the Norwegian are safe in the Qualification Round and the Austrians will have to fight for survival in the Relegation Round.
[Finland-Czech Republic] 1-2. I am learning new things about international hockey everyday. Apparently these two countries have a bit of an international rivalry going on and often the games are close with only little scoring. I have not seen this game so I will trust the report is correct and that this was a very physical and tough game with both sides taking lots of penalties. Fun bit: Pavelec was very close to a shut-out, but the Finns scored with just 20 seconds left on the clock (6 on 5). Hahah, so close!
[Sweden-USA] 6-2. Watched this game tonight and it was awesome. The first period was interesting enough with the Swedes building pressure and firing a lot of shots at Al Montoya, who bless him, was great. And a bit unexpectedly Team USA equalised on a PP with a bit over a minute to go. The Swedes were great to watch, great skating, great skills. Then the second period started and Montoya went on to disprove my comment about him being great. Basically he mucked up. He was skating behind the goal, trying to keep the puck in the game, but instead of getting rid of it properly, some Swedish guy called Kruger stole the puck and scored, pretty much an empty-netter ;) ... and for the rest of the period the Swedes were on a roll as Mattias Sjogren and Patrik Berglund scored to make it 4-1. The third period did not start very sparkly at all. I was expecting the USA to crank up the speed and start pressuring for a goal, but it was all a bit lacklustre and even the PP the USA had halfway through was played without any real energy. After the PP the Swedes actually upped the pressure a bit with a few good shots at the goal. And just as I was least expecting it, Team USA struck and Wheeler netted one for the USA. With the game against Norway still fresh in mind where they came back from a 2-0 deficit I thought we might be in for some last period fireworks. And we were! But it was the Swedes who made it happen. Where USA failed to pick up speed, Sweden did bring it and they scored two more goals to make it a huge 6-2 win. Ouch Team USA, splendid job by Sweden. Oh, it was also the most physical game I have personally seen at this World Cup, lots of skermishes and fistycuffs and at one point even one of the refs joined in and totally ninja'd a Swedish player. Hopefully someone will eventually upload a vid so I can add it. It amused me!
And I must share this. Some reporter on the IIHF.com site wrote: "The bigger Swedes played a physical, aggressive game that bothered the Americans much of the night." Right. In what universe do some hard as steel NHL/AHL players have issues with a physical and aggresive opponent? *shakes head*
Tuesday, 3 May 2011
IIHF World Championship | Day 5 | May 3rd, 2011
And so Day 5 comes to a conclusion. Had planned to watch Canada-Switzerland and Russia-Slovakia, but due to a long day at work I was happy enough to catch the second game. Wish I had seen Canada-Switzerland too though, the reports are interesting. Anyways, as the day winds down, let me write up a quick overview of the games played.
[Slovenia-Germany] 2-3. Well well well, those Germans did it. For the first time since 1930 they started the World Cup with three wins in a row. I know this because the guys at the IIHF site said so. Do not worry! I have not magically turned into a stats-crunching, trivia-spewing blogger ;) ... anyways, the guys had to take it to SO, but a win is a win and the Germans are first placed in their group and moving on to the Qualification Round.
[Canada-Switzerland] 4-3. I am truly sorry I missed this gem. After Russia, Switzerland is my fave European team and I am glad they made things difficult for Team Canada. But Canada of course holds a special place in my heart. I prefer the outcome as it is, but I would not have minded too much if the Swiss had won this one. It took an OT goal to decide the victor of this game. Canada is first in Group B and the Swiss have secured second place. I am content.
[Russia-Slovakia] 4-3. Yeah, Russia won! It was an exciting game to watch and the tension of it all made me go walk around my place a few times. One such walk occured after the Slovaks made it 2-3. And because of it I missed Nikulin make it 3-3 ;) ... he scored two of the goals. Kovi also scored one; he played a good game. Russians are in second place in their group, right after those pesky Germans!
[France-Belarus] 2-1. Another OT game. I apologise, but I just could not get excited about this game. France is through to the Qualification Round, whereas Belarus will have to fight for survival in the Relegation Round. Next!
Oh, that was it for today. But here a pic for fellow Reimer fans! My buddy Ferd is in Slovakia to watch some games. Hell yeah, of course I am jealous. Hahah, I must also add that he is a fellow Flyers fan but he remembered my ramblings about Reims, so just for me - I like to think hahah - he took some pics! :D
[Slovenia-Germany] 2-3. Well well well, those Germans did it. For the first time since 1930 they started the World Cup with three wins in a row. I know this because the guys at the IIHF site said so. Do not worry! I have not magically turned into a stats-crunching, trivia-spewing blogger ;) ... anyways, the guys had to take it to SO, but a win is a win and the Germans are first placed in their group and moving on to the Qualification Round.
[Canada-Switzerland] 4-3. I am truly sorry I missed this gem. After Russia, Switzerland is my fave European team and I am glad they made things difficult for Team Canada. But Canada of course holds a special place in my heart. I prefer the outcome as it is, but I would not have minded too much if the Swiss had won this one. It took an OT goal to decide the victor of this game. Canada is first in Group B and the Swiss have secured second place. I am content.
[Russia-Slovakia] 4-3. Yeah, Russia won! It was an exciting game to watch and the tension of it all made me go walk around my place a few times. One such walk occured after the Slovaks made it 2-3. And because of it I missed Nikulin make it 3-3 ;) ... he scored two of the goals. Kovi also scored one; he played a good game. Russians are in second place in their group, right after those pesky Germans!
[France-Belarus] 2-1. Another OT game. I apologise, but I just could not get excited about this game. France is through to the Qualification Round, whereas Belarus will have to fight for survival in the Relegation Round. Next!
Oh, that was it for today. But here a pic for fellow Reimer fans! My buddy Ferd is in Slovakia to watch some games. Hell yeah, of course I am jealous. Hahah, I must also add that he is a fellow Flyers fan but he remembered my ramblings about Reims, so just for me - I like to think hahah - he took some pics! :D
Monday, 2 May 2011
IIHF World Championship | Day 4 | May 2nd, 2011
Today's games have been played, so time for my end-of-day update.
[Czech Republic-Denmark] 6-0. Well, that was just a beating the Czechs dished out to the Danes. Specifically hectic second period where the Czechs scored four of the goals. And eventhough things might have been a bit different if the Danes had scored early in the second period when they had a two-man advantage, I wonder if that is really true. How do I even come to this assumption? Havlat said it: "Had they scored on the 5-on-3, it would have been a different game." :D
[USA-Norway] 4-2 Norway was still high on beating the Swedes and continued euphorically by scoring two goals in the first period and hanging on to that lead throughout a rather boring second period. Palmieri finally put Team USA on the scoring board. The puck went in via his skate though, so it took a bit of debating by the refs, but ultimately it was deemed a good hockey goal. Phew for the USA. Just before the 15 minute mark the Americans scored again. Jack Skille got this one and this is where the Americans started to believe in it too, while the Norwegians hardly even got anywhere near Al Montoya. A third goal followed 6.5 minutes before end of play, Palmieri again. And Smith closed up with a goal in final two minutes. {edit: had Stepan for the goal, but he ended up with the assist I just noticed and also I had to ammend the first sentence, they were of course high on beating Sweden, thanks for that one Mike, phew}
[Latvia-Finland] 2-3. I watched the other evening-game, but I caught the shoot out. The Finns nailed that one. I was score-watching throughout though and at some point I thought the Finns would lose this one. Lets just say they managed to win it, but it definitely was not pretty.
[Sweden-Austria] 3-0. Missed the first period as I was cleaning my place lol, but was ready for the rest of the game. Picked this one over the Latvia-game because I thought it would be more interesting. But frankly, it felt like watching a morning skate, but without the fun. It was not exciting at all. Sorry Sweden or Austria fans, but even the goals did not excite me. I wish I could write more or find something great to focus on, but no. Just a snoozefest.
Ha, that is it for today. Looking forward to Canada-Switzerland. I think the Swiss might be my European favourites and I wonder how they will play against Canada. Wonder if the German will continue their winning streak and oh, Russia playing too. Interesting hockey day!
[Czech Republic-Denmark] 6-0. Well, that was just a beating the Czechs dished out to the Danes. Specifically hectic second period where the Czechs scored four of the goals. And eventhough things might have been a bit different if the Danes had scored early in the second period when they had a two-man advantage, I wonder if that is really true. How do I even come to this assumption? Havlat said it: "Had they scored on the 5-on-3, it would have been a different game." :D
[USA-Norway] 4-2 Norway was still high on beating the Swedes and continued euphorically by scoring two goals in the first period and hanging on to that lead throughout a rather boring second period. Palmieri finally put Team USA on the scoring board. The puck went in via his skate though, so it took a bit of debating by the refs, but ultimately it was deemed a good hockey goal. Phew for the USA. Just before the 15 minute mark the Americans scored again. Jack Skille got this one and this is where the Americans started to believe in it too, while the Norwegians hardly even got anywhere near Al Montoya. A third goal followed 6.5 minutes before end of play, Palmieri again. And Smith closed up with a goal in final two minutes. {edit: had Stepan for the goal, but he ended up with the assist I just noticed and also I had to ammend the first sentence, they were of course high on beating Sweden, thanks for that one Mike, phew}
[Latvia-Finland] 2-3. I watched the other evening-game, but I caught the shoot out. The Finns nailed that one. I was score-watching throughout though and at some point I thought the Finns would lose this one. Lets just say they managed to win it, but it definitely was not pretty.
[Sweden-Austria] 3-0. Missed the first period as I was cleaning my place lol, but was ready for the rest of the game. Picked this one over the Latvia-game because I thought it would be more interesting. But frankly, it felt like watching a morning skate, but without the fun. It was not exciting at all. Sorry Sweden or Austria fans, but even the goals did not excite me. I wish I could write more or find something great to focus on, but no. Just a snoozefest.
Ha, that is it for today. Looking forward to Canada-Switzerland. I think the Swiss might be my European favourites and I wonder how they will play against Canada. Wonder if the German will continue their winning streak and oh, Russia playing too. Interesting hockey day!
IIHF World Championship | Day 3 | May 1st, 2011
My quick end-of-day update!
[Russia-Slovenia] 6-4. Hmm, you would expect Russia to have a little less trouble with Slovenia. Slovenians were happy with their game despite the loss. I wish I had been at home for this game, especially for the third period where it rained goals ;) Kovalchuk was doing his thing, so was Afinogenov and it is fun to see Nabokov in goal. Still suspended from the NHL as he refused to report to the Isles when he was picked up on waivers earlier this year lol
[Canada-France] 9-1. My word, that is some serious ass-kicking. Spezza got one, Skinner scored twice and ♥Nash♥ scored too. Reims of course had a great game. He got replaced by Dubnyk for the last 14 minutes (at which point it was 7-1). I checked why - got worried maybe Reims got injured or whatever - and apparently it was to get Dubnyk some ice time too. Makes sense. Oh, and Phaneuf was pronounced best player of the game for the Canadians. Nice going my Leafies. I had a look at the game stats. Yes, it is true. I can hardly believe it myself ;) ... and it was fun to see all Team Canada guys were plusses ;)
[Slovakia-Germany] 3-4. I got home in time to see the Germans lead 4-0. Seconds later the Slovaks made 4-1, then the Germans almost let the game slip ;) ... like Jurcina put it: "We said that if they can score three in a period, so can we. With a few more minutes, we probably would have tied it." Sort of like that saying 'We did not lose the game, we just ran out of time' ;) Anyways, the Germans probably surprised everyone by already having secured their place for the next round. Oh, Hossa, Gaborik and Hanzus are the other three NHL'ers playing for Slovakia. Just so you know. {edit: I forgot to mention Marian Gaborik in this list at first, thanks for setting me straight Sven!}
[Switzerland-Belarus] 4-1. Suppose things are not looking great for Belarus and Grabo will not go far in this World Cup. But good for Switzerland. I watched some Swiss teams during the Spengler Cup in December and I liked what I saw. Goran Bezina played well, I remember him from that tournament where he took a puck in the face doing some D work. I like that kind of dedication.
A fun World Championship so far!
[Russia-Slovenia] 6-4. Hmm, you would expect Russia to have a little less trouble with Slovenia. Slovenians were happy with their game despite the loss. I wish I had been at home for this game, especially for the third period where it rained goals ;) Kovalchuk was doing his thing, so was Afinogenov and it is fun to see Nabokov in goal. Still suspended from the NHL as he refused to report to the Isles when he was picked up on waivers earlier this year lol
[Canada-France] 9-1. My word, that is some serious ass-kicking. Spezza got one, Skinner scored twice and ♥Nash♥ scored too. Reims of course had a great game. He got replaced by Dubnyk for the last 14 minutes (at which point it was 7-1). I checked why - got worried maybe Reims got injured or whatever - and apparently it was to get Dubnyk some ice time too. Makes sense. Oh, and Phaneuf was pronounced best player of the game for the Canadians. Nice going my Leafies. I had a look at the game stats. Yes, it is true. I can hardly believe it myself ;) ... and it was fun to see all Team Canada guys were plusses ;)
[Slovakia-Germany] 3-4. I got home in time to see the Germans lead 4-0. Seconds later the Slovaks made 4-1, then the Germans almost let the game slip ;) ... like Jurcina put it: "We said that if they can score three in a period, so can we. With a few more minutes, we probably would have tied it." Sort of like that saying 'We did not lose the game, we just ran out of time' ;) Anyways, the Germans probably surprised everyone by already having secured their place for the next round. Oh, Hossa, Gaborik and Hanzus are the other three NHL'ers playing for Slovakia. Just so you know. {edit: I forgot to mention Marian Gaborik in this list at first, thanks for setting me straight Sven!}
[Switzerland-Belarus] 4-1. Suppose things are not looking great for Belarus and Grabo will not go far in this World Cup. But good for Switzerland. I watched some Swiss teams during the Spengler Cup in December and I liked what I saw. Goran Bezina played well, I remember him from that tournament where he took a puck in the face doing some D work. I like that kind of dedication.
A fun World Championship so far!
Saturday, 30 April 2011
IIHF World Championship | Day 2 | April 30th, 2011
Just a short update for you guys who are stuck safely and soundly in the Playoffs.
[Finland-Denmark] 5-1. Expected, hoped for and gotten after last year's opening game upset, where the Finns for some reason lost 4-1 to Denmark.
[USA-Austria] 5-1. This year the Germans upset the Russians in the opening game, by beating them 2-0. Last year the USA suffered a similar fate when the Germans unexpectedly beat the USA 2-1 in OT. Ha, Team USA was having none of it this year facing Austria and smoothly won this one 5-1.
[Czech Republic-Latvia] 4-2. Very much expected. Havlat and Elias scored two of the Czech goals. It was not pretty and apparently the Czechs were a bit surprised that the Latvians managed to get into the game.
[Norway-Sweden] 5-4 SO win. Wow. I did not know this, but since 1950 - when they first met - Norway never won a game and managed to tie a game only once when playing against Sweden. So this was a pretty historical occurence! Mark it in your hockey trivia book ;)
Did not manage to catch any of the games myself, but might tomorrow! Hopefully some interesting games!
[Finland-Denmark] 5-1. Expected, hoped for and gotten after last year's opening game upset, where the Finns for some reason lost 4-1 to Denmark.
[USA-Austria] 5-1. This year the Germans upset the Russians in the opening game, by beating them 2-0. Last year the USA suffered a similar fate when the Germans unexpectedly beat the USA 2-1 in OT. Ha, Team USA was having none of it this year facing Austria and smoothly won this one 5-1.
[Czech Republic-Latvia] 4-2. Very much expected. Havlat and Elias scored two of the Czech goals. It was not pretty and apparently the Czechs were a bit surprised that the Latvians managed to get into the game.
[Norway-Sweden] 5-4 SO win. Wow. I did not know this, but since 1950 - when they first met - Norway never won a game and managed to tie a game only once when playing against Sweden. So this was a pretty historical occurence! Mark it in your hockey trivia book ;)
Did not manage to catch any of the games myself, but might tomorrow! Hopefully some interesting games!
IIHF World Championship | Team Canada & USA News | April 29th, 2011
Yaps, for some guys the Playoffs are over but there is still some hockey left for some as they get added to the rosters for Team Canada and Team USA.
Team Canada added LA King Jonathan Bernier and Marc-André Gragnani of the Sabres. Oh, Penguin James Neal as well! Expect them to join the team in the next few days.
Team USA added Paul Gaustad of the Sabres. Yeah some other guy too, but he plays in the OHL and the ignorant me has no clue who is anyways ;)
Team Canada added LA King Jonathan Bernier and Marc-André Gragnani of the Sabres. Oh, Penguin James Neal as well! Expect them to join the team in the next few days.
Team USA added Paul Gaustad of the Sabres. Yeah some other guy too, but he plays in the OHL and the ignorant me has no clue who is anyways ;)
Friday, 29 April 2011
IIHF World Championship | Day 1 | April 29th, 2011
Do not expect the same addiction-induced scriblings for the World Championship. It is fun enough, but nothing can trump the Playoffs! But I will be watching as much games as I can and I will share my little musings with you ;)
Today four games were played. I managed to watch Belarus vs Canada. Eberle scored twice and Tavares and Skinner got a goal each. Stepanov scored for Belarus. Dion was a beast, getting in all sorts of hits, not all legal so he spent a fair amount of time in the penalty box, but all is good! And Reimer was his cool awesome self. The guys continues to make me proud. Anyways, that was a 4-1 win and great start. Oh, I have to say that another Leafie did great too. Grabovski played a good game for Belarus :)
I must admit that I do not always know which country is most likely to win a game. I think that Switzerland's 1-0 win over France is to be expected, and I am quite positive that Slovakian hockey is more evolved than Slovenia's so the 3-1 win for Slovakia sounds plausible. But hell! Who would have expected Russia to get beaten by Germany with a 2-0 game? Shutout too! Not me! Not even my German buddy Sven and he knows German hockey like no one else I am sure. I am a lifelong Russia fan, since the USSR times, so this is not a very pleasing result. But I can certainly appreciate the epic effort shown by the German team. Gut gemacht, Jungs! :D
Today four games were played. I managed to watch Belarus vs Canada. Eberle scored twice and Tavares and Skinner got a goal each. Stepanov scored for Belarus. Dion was a beast, getting in all sorts of hits, not all legal so he spent a fair amount of time in the penalty box, but all is good! And Reimer was his cool awesome self. The guys continues to make me proud. Anyways, that was a 4-1 win and great start. Oh, I have to say that another Leafie did great too. Grabovski played a good game for Belarus :)
I must admit that I do not always know which country is most likely to win a game. I think that Switzerland's 1-0 win over France is to be expected, and I am quite positive that Slovakian hockey is more evolved than Slovenia's so the 3-1 win for Slovakia sounds plausible. But hell! Who would have expected Russia to get beaten by Germany with a 2-0 game? Shutout too! Not me! Not even my German buddy Sven and he knows German hockey like no one else I am sure. I am a lifelong Russia fan, since the USSR times, so this is not a very pleasing result. But I can certainly appreciate the epic effort shown by the German team. Gut gemacht, Jungs! :D
Thursday, 28 April 2011
IIHF World Championship | When?! Where?! | April 28th, 2011
We might be in full-on Stanley Cup mode, but lets not forget some of our favourite NHL players will be fighting for their country's honour at the IIHF World Championship in Bratislava & Kosice in Slovakia. If I lived any closer to Slovakia I would drive up there. And it starts tomorrow! From April 29th to May 15th we will get to see many exciting games I am sure! Now if only Dutch TV would pay attention to it. I suppose I will be streamhunting again *sighs*
And hey, not all my Leafies are playing golf either! Some have been called up to join Team Canada or Team USA, so there! Mike Komisarek & Mike Brown have been added to the Team USA roster (as well as Jake Gardiner of the Marlies!). Team Canada has added James Reimer, Dion Phaneuf (A) & Luke Schenn to the roster.
And a special mention for ♥ Rick Nash ♥ ... he has been named Captain for Team Canada!
Click Here For Full Team Canada Roster & Click Here For Full Team USA Roster
If bored I might check the other teams and see which of our European faves are playing for their respective countries.
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