Umeå – Only two hours after the tournament had seen its first face-off there were 73 goals registered in the secretariats. The spectators in the three arenas could enjoy much scoring, but those who hoped for thrilling games were probably disappointed. Finland won the Scandinavian battle against Norway by 10-0, Czech Republic beat Austria 28-2, and the young Japanese team lost to the host nation by 33-0.
Finland’s Jaakko Rissanen was pleased with the game. ‘This was a fine start. The Finnish season ended some time ago so most of us haven’t played in a while, but it feels good. Norway was playing well but tactically I think we were much better.’ There is no doubt what the Fins have come here to do: ‘We aim for gold, definitely. We won last time, and we’re here to defend our title!’
The Polish women’s team faced Finland in their first game. Aniela Stelmasiewicz was engaged in the Japanese team two years ago and is one of very few in her team with previous experience from this event. ‘Yes, this is the first time Poland has a team in the Student World Championship. We’re only 14 players but have a great spirit and look forward to play Finland. To us it’s important to stick to our tactics and enjoy this championship; the result isn’t our main goal.
At 10 pm all teams had entered the floor and the day has continued like it started, with plenty of scoring. Czech Republic vs. Sweden seemed to end in favor for the away team when the scoring was 4-6 with one minute left to play. The Czechs had some unfinished business however, and after an eventful last minute the game ended 6-6. 450 spectators had showed up to IKSU Arena for the game and as many were sticking around for the Swedish women’s first game. The two players mentioned yesterday lived up to the expectations. Captain Wendelstig appeared to be everywhere on the floor and Sara Helin’s repeated scoring contributed to Sweden’s victory against Finland. Sara was all smiles afterwards and as the MVP of the game she was busy being interviewed by reporters before joining her team mates to stretch.
The MVPs of the game (one from each team) receive a cheese that is significant for this area of northern Sweden.
The medical team has not been too busy. Sweden’s Christian Mattsson injured his foot, but apart from that Emma Ragnarsson, head of the medical team, has no injuries to report. ‘On our team there are physiotherapist students (from Umeå University) that are accessible for all teams if they want tape, massage or any other treatment. Each team has two attachés from Umeå University.
(Source: Amanda Lundmark, OC 2010 WUC Floorball)
Men’s SWE vs. CZE
Women’s FIN vs. SWE
Women’s FIN vs. SWE
(Photos: OC 2010 WUC Floorball)
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