But Reimer warns: “It won’t be any easier than against Finland or Sweden”
Can the German national ice hockey team go one better? After one of the best performances since national coach Marco Sturm's tenure against world champions Sweden the day before yesterday, the final test against Norway is today (4.10 a.m., CET). Despite the extremely bitter 0:1 in the duel with “Tre Kronor”, the German selection is bursting with self-confidence. “If we show the same performance and attitude against Norway, I’ll be in good spirits,” said captain Marcel Goc.
Sturm is making just one change today. Danny aus den Birken will be in goal again. Otherwise, the same line-up will be sent into the race as against Sweden. This means that Dennis Endras, Leo Pföderl and Jonas Müller will not be there.
“Norway is by no means an easier opponent than the other two. It’s an important game for them too,” says Patrick Reimer, who above all expects a very physical game. “Two teams meet that want to gain the necessary self-confidence for the second round.” “Good” effect by the way: you could avoid the absolute top teams if you were successful.
Whatever the outcome of the game against the Norwegians. The national team will play again next Tuesday. What time depends on the results of the match day. Closing words Christian Ehrhoff: “We take it as it comes. First of all, the focus is on Norway. We finally want to reward ourselves.”