The Finns have gained a mental upper hand over the Swedish ice hockey men during preparations for the World Championship next month. Tre Kronor did win the first of four meetings between the countries (2–1 in Gothenburg), but since then, there have been three straight Finnish victories and, even more alarming: no goals scored for Sweden.
It's becoming frustrating. This is the ninth period without us scoring a goal, says Sweden's national team captain Sam Hallam to SVT after Friday's 0–3 loss.
Finland followed up Thursday's 5–0 win in Raumo by also winning in Tavastehus the following day with clear numbers.
In terms of play, there was still a certain improvement from the Swedish side, thought defender Tom Willander at the score of 0–1 after the first period.
We're significantly better than yesterday, said Willander to SVT.
I think we're doing a pretty good job, if we continue to get the puck towards the goal, it'll probably go in soon.
It didn't now. When the match was hanging in the balance, the home team instead scored two goals in quick succession in the middle act, Joona Ikonen and Harri Pesonen ensuring it was 3–0 after two periods.
Sweden fought and toiled, but was toothless up front. For the second match in a row, Tre Kronor were awarded a penalty shot without being able to capitalize on the opportunity.
I think we have a team that's working very hard today and playing significantly more correctly. Then we need to add the game with the puck. Then we need better execution from our side. But today, at least the fight was there, says Sam Hallam.
April 28–May 4: Czech Hockey Games (Kloten, Switzerland/Brno, Czech Republic).
May 9–25: World Championship in Stockholm and Herning, Denmark.
