The U.S.A. tied 3-3 with Slovakia in a memorable game on April 26. Pavol Demitra (SVK) scored in the 12th minute of the first period. The second period saw five goals scored in a thrilling spell of play. The third period ended goalless thanks to some great goalie work by Ty Conklin (USA) and Jan Lasak (SVK).
The Czech Republic trounced Kazakhstan 7-0 on April 26. The Czechs scored five goals in the first period. Martin Rucinsky scored a hat trick with three goals during the game.
Finland crushed Ukraine 5-1 on April 26. While the score was relatively low, Finland outshot Ukraine 57-12. The Finns dominated and after the first two goals by Olli Jokinen (Fin), the game was never in any doubt for Finland.
A press conference was held at Prague's Sazka Arena on April 26 to discuss next year's 2005 World Hockey Championships in Austria. The tournament will take place from April 30 to May 15, which is the tournament's latest start ever. Tickets will go on sale on May 22, 2004, from www.icehockey2005.com
Source: www.ihwc.net:
