Photo: England coach Andy Halliday encourages his troops during a time out.The former European Champions, Russia, were likely to be a tough nut for England to crack, but they put in a creditable effort which demonstrates that they can hold their own at this level.
Russia came into the game in hyperdrive, and the pace for the first five minutes was breathtaking. It did the Russians little good and the score remained at zero apiece until the dying seconds of the first half, when England was awarded a penalty stroke, which England’s Simon Mantell put away.
The second half was barely underway before Alexander Zhirkov equalised for Russia. Russia took the lead ten minutes later when Dmitry Volkvov scored a cracker high in the corner of Nick Brother’s net.
The last minute of the match saw a flurry of activity, with Alexander Korolev scored Russia’s third. A penalty corner awarded to England in overtime was converted by Richard Mantell to give a final score of 3-2 to Russia.
It was a match which was a delight to watch, with some exciting moments, including a superb save by the Russian goalkeeper and a stop on the line by England skipper Barry Middleton.
England play the USA later today.
