Slovakia’s efficiency overpowers France

The game did start on the bright side for the French, who were confident of their abilities after defeating Germany the day before. Jordan Perret scored just 69 seconds after the start of contest, putting the puck through the Slovakian netminder Julius Hudacek with a slapshot on a breakaway. Slovakia did not wait long to respond, as in the fourth minute Andrej Sekera scored the equalizer with a hammer from the point. The Slovaks gained confidence and slowly began to take control of the game. In the 14^th minute legendary French goalkeeper Cristobal Huet was chanceless, as Dominik Grahan perfectly placed the puck under the crossbar. With the shots tied at nine, the French though proved to be in the contest.

France also had some great opportunites to start the middle frame. Nicolas Ritz and Tim Bozon were though both denied alone in front of Hudacek, who proved that he can not only celebrate wins on the ice as he is especially known for in the hockey world. The Slovaks showed what efficiency meant. On the man advantage, Andrej Meszaros found Martin Baros alone in the slot, who was given too much time and space by the French defence, making it 3-1 for Slovakia. Only 48 seconds later Detroit Red Wings-forward Tomas Jurco sent Libur Hudacek flying, who deked out Huet to gain a three-goal-lead.

In the final period Florian Hardy replaced Huet between the pipes. The world champions of 2002 stayed solid in their own zone and converted on a 3-on-1 situation in the final minutes of the game. Christian Jaros’ marker was the last of the game, as Slovakia beat France 5-1. It was the second win in a row for the team coached by Zdeno Ciger after they had beaten Hungary in the opening day.

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