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Swiss Upset Czech Republic With Offensive Outburst

It was one of those games that you’d have to see for yourself to believe the final score if you’re a fan of either the Swiss or Czech teams currently partaking in the 2015 World Junior Championship. The Swiss hadn’t beat the Czechs in U20 play since 1998  spanning through 7 meetings since then as well. Kevin Fiala, the Nashville Predators’ 11th overall draft pick in this year’s draft made his presence felt and will be a major factor to any future success the Swiss are to have.

Fiala got the Swiss on the board only 46 seconds into the game from a great feed by fellow teammate Timo Meier. However less than 5 minutes into the first and the Czechs quickly put themselves ahead with two goals to answer the fast start by the Swiss. Fiala would have something to say to that once more as he rushed up the length of the ice with the puck midway through the period and ripped a shot top shelf knotting all things up at two a piece.

The second period was where it would all be won for the Swiss as only 45 seconds in and Noah Rod would go on to put the team ahead. Then just another 44 seconds later, Kay Schwer would find Tim Wieser on a deflect to put the Swiss up 4-2. However the offense would not stop there as a final fifth goal from Switzerland’s Luca Fazzini would put a nice 3-goal cushion after two periods.

The five goals scored marked the first time in U20 history that the Swiss had scored as many goals against the Czechs in 17 all-time meetings. Just think about that last line for a second and you’ll realize how big of a win this truly was and that much more of a great start for the Swiss team.

The victory by all means is well deserved but the Swiss have little time to celebrate as they take on Russia on Sunday. Any result ending in walking away with points against Russia is the goal in mind. Russia’s team isn’t as dominate as some of the teams of the past and the Swiss have the green light to keep their so-far product offensive play going this tournament.

Igor Burdetskiy

Igor Burdetskiy

Founder, Editor-in-Chief, & CEO at Hooked on Hockey Magazine
I grew up playing Ball and Roller Hockey day and night somewhat religiously throughout elementary and middle school. The two don't compare though when I lace up the skates and hit the ice. I live and breathe hockey beyond the perspective of "it's just a game" and I will gladly talk hockey for hours with anyone. Hockey is more than just a lifestyle, it's a culture of passionate people who make memories every time the puck is dropped. Hockey has not only helped me get through some of the hardest times in life but has created some of the best memories to date. Want to talk hockey with me? Shoot me an email: iburdetskiy@hookedonhockey.com and let's talk some hockey!
Igor Burdetskiy
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