BRATISLAVA, May 3 (Xinhua) -- The Slovakia ice-hockey team continues its preparation for the upcoming IIHF World Championship in Latvia on a high note, defeating Austria twice on the weekend to stretch its winning streak to five.
On Saturday, Austria managed to tie the game at 1-1 early in the third period but Slovakia answered with two quick goals within 72 seconds from Adrian Holesinsky and Milos Roman for a 3-1 win.
On Sunday, the same two players scored again, each putting a puck into Austria's goal in the opening period. Their powerplay goals turned out to be the only ones scored, thus providing a 2-0 victory for the home team. Slovakia goalie Julius Hudacek only had to make 9 saves on his shutout.
"I hope to make the final team that will go to the World Championship but I am trying not to dwell on it too much. The second match was surprisingly physical on Austria's side. A couple of my teammates got injured, I hope it's nothing serious. Friendly matches should not end with injured players," said Holesinsky after the final horn.
"I am proud of my guys, about the way they fought despite the circumstances on the ice," added Craig Ramsay, the head coach of team Slovakia.
The Slovaks' preparation stage will conclude in Prague with a double fixture against the Czech Republic. Enditem