Penalty shots takes Denmark to round two

04 May 2011 | Fredrik Pålsson, photos by Roman Kucera

Big drama when Mats Christensen's three goals helps Denmark to the next round and sends Latvia to the relegation round.

It was an all decisive game between Denmark and Latvia, the winner would qualify for the next round while the loser would have to play in the relegation round. The game was tied at two after two periods and despite 14-5 in shots for Latvia in the next round the last period was goalless. After five minutes overtime the score was still 2-2 and the game was decided in a shootout. The shootout was decided in round four when Mads Christensen scored the only goal of the shootout and his third of the game.

Nizivijs with a good chance against Andersen

Christensen opened the score for Denmark already at 1:43 with a one-timer from the top of the faceoff circle. Despite high tempo and some Latvian pressure that was the only goal of the period. The quality of the game in the second period was disturbed by several penalties for both teams but three goals were scored. Martins Cipulis tied the game when he tipped in a shot from Oskars Cibulskis. After Christensens second goal of the game Jekabs Redlihs had an easy finish for 2-2.

Lauris Darzins left the game with an injury

Frederik Andersen saved Denmark with a great save on a late power play for Latvia. This is the first time ever Latvia has to play in the relegation round at the World Championship since being promoted to the Elite Group in 1997. Denmark on the other hand is qualified for the second round again and will play Russia in their next game.