Australia is back in Division I with perfect record
10 Apr 2011 | Davide Tuniz
Host won also last game against Serbia and gained promotion after a brilliant campaign. New Zealand captured an unexpected silver. No relegation due to North Korea initial walkover
Wasn't easy for Australia to capture its fourth game: goalie Matt Ezzy had to work hard (42 saves total) but finally host can celebrate a fast return to Division I, while Serbian recriminate about thier first unexpected loss against Belgium. Serbia opened the score in first power play with Nenad Rakovic, but all were set to be a celebration day for Australia: 09 seconds after veteran Greg Oddy equalized delighting the fans once again packing Melbourne Arena. Before the first break David Upton signed Aussies' advantage, extended in seocnd period by homeboy and tournament best forward Joseph Hughes.. An early shorthanded goal by Marko Kovacevic, eclipsed in this tournament due to an hand injury, restored Serbian hopes but another home star, Melbourne Ice forward Liam Webster, sealed final 4-2 and the party can start!
In the afternoon another downunder team had a lot to celebrate: newly promoted New Zealand won 5-0 against a young inexperienced Mexico and finished as runner up in the table, having goalie Zak Nothling awarded as tournament best goalie. North Korea initial walkover grant a place in next Division II for Mexico, despite a 0-4 record
Ice Hockey World Championship Division I Group A - Final Standing
Australia is promoted to 2012 Ice Hockey World Championship Division I
North Korea is relegated to 2012 Ice Hockey World Championship Division III
Best Players Selected by the Directorate
Best Players of Each Team Selected by Coaches