Finland gives Latvia no chance and takes the win – 04.12.2017

Finland played their last group match against Latvia. Right from the start, it seemed that it is going to be a clear victory for Finland. This would make it the third win for Finland in a row after they beat the Czech Republic and Norway. Straight from the start, in the first period, Finland confirmed the role of a favorite. First one to score was Mia Karjalainen, with a nice assist from Jenna Saario. Before the end of the first period, Finland added three more goals and made it 4-0.

The second period looked very similar to the performance from both teams before. Finland stayed strong, keeping Latvia under pressure most of the time. They managed to score four more goals. However, Diana Isjomina scored to cut down the score, making it 8-1 before the final period.

Latvia went through quite hard times in the third period and had to defend three Finnish power plays. Gunita Karklina and Liga Garklava were both given a 2-minute penalty, Karklina twice. Finland took the opportunity to score two powerplay goals and confirmed their victory. Final score 12-1 for Finland.

Best players:
Latvia: #95 Anna Ankudinova
Finland: #24 Katri Luomaniemi