Russia vs. Finland 1-2 (0-0, 0-0, 1-2)

Finland triumphs over Russia in hard-fought game

Russia started the first period well, but was unable to score against a well organized Finnish team. Finland improved with each passing minute of the period, and went into the break as the better side. However, neither of the teams was able to score in the opening period.

The second period started much the same as the first, with the Russians looking better prepared. Again, Finland was able to get a foothold in the game, but there were not many dangerous scoring chances the teams exchanged.
 
Unlike in the 40 minutes before, Finland started the third period well and went ahead with a goal from Karoliina Rantamäki. Tempers flared after this as the Russians looked to equalize. Both teams played hard and no physical contact was spared. This was particularly obvious when Tatyana Burina received a 2+10 min penalty for checking to the head and neck area.

Although the Russians attacked well, they were punished for some careless defending when Minnamari Tuominen gave team Finland a 2-0 lead. Russia continued what had been a determined display and was rewarded in the dying minutes of the final period when Lyudmila Belyakova scored. Finnish goalkeeper Anna Vanhatalo made some important saves at the end of the game to secure the 2-1 victory.

Best players of the game:
Finland: Anna Vanhatalo
Russia: Anna Prugova

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