In what should be another fun day of hockey – Latvia will battle against Finland on Monday May 2nd, 2011. This game will get started at 20:15 and take place in Bratislavia. Both of these teams are playing out of Pool D. This is game 15 scheduled for the World Hockey Championships.
Latvia was unable to handle the Czech Republic in their opening round game. Team Latvia did get a pretty decent game from goaltender Edgars Masalskis, despite allowing four goals. Team Latvia started quick behind their quick forwards, but were unable to get anything going after the first part of the opening period. Latvia’s Arturs Kulda may not be able to play in the next game, after a hit on a Czech player. The hit is being reviewed by the IIHF.
Finland won their opening game on the strength of three power play goals. Juhamatti Aaltonen was the key for Finland offensively with a goal and as assist. Team Finland scored their first goal off a slap shot from Jarkko Immonen. Finland wants to get back to winning a medal, as they have not had one since their Bronze medal during the 2008 games.
Finland will win this game with ease. Latvia did not look great in their first round game, and that will be a common theme for them. Look for Finland to win this game by multiple goals. We like Finland -3 for even money.