Before the 15 kilometer short distance in Kontiolax, Finland, the Swedish biathlon stars were mentioned as possible winners in the individual season opener.
They were not close to the podium, not even among the top-30.
The time penalties after the terrible start put Ponsiluoma and Samuelsson in almost impossible situations shortly after they fired their rifles for the first time.
The day was ruined
When they followed up with each a missed shot at the second, standing shooting, the day was definitely ruined.
When Samuelsson (six missed shots) and Ponsiluoma (seven missed) emptied their magazines, they could note rounds without zeros and at most modest placements – 39th and 71st.
I have no good answer. It was just too bad. I'm really disappointed that it didn't go better, says Samuelsson to SVT.
It didn't help that Samuelsson was one of the race's fastest skiers.
Superior Norwegians
The Norwegians were, on the other hand, pinpoint accurate. Endre Strømsheim shot full – 20 out of 20 hits – and since he skied fast enough, it was enough for victory.
Strømsheim held off Johannes Thingnes Bø with three seconds to spare. Sturla Holm Lægreid completed the Norwegian triple, just over 24 seconds behind Strømsheim.
The best Swede? Jesper Nelin in 33rd place. Just like Samuelsson, he was one of the fastest on skis but missed four shots.
Terrible. I get really irritated. I think I should do better, says he to SVT.
On Friday, there is a chance for Swedish revenge when the sprint over 10 kilometers is decided in Kontiolax.
