Great Britain secured two victories on the opening day of the men’s Ultimate Hockey 3×3 tournament in Innsbruck.
In the morning’s game, GB defeated Netherlands 8-5 for an opening victory in Group B.
Johnny Curran and Jacob Sacratini both scored twice and there was a goal each for Logan Neilson, Carter Hamill, Thomas Freel and Kell Beattie.
Game two of the day was under the lights and Corey Neilson’s side secured a 10-6 success against hosts Austria.
Logan Neilson scored a hat-trick, Thomas Freel and Cameron Briere both netted twice and there were also goals for Jacob Sacratini, Carter Hamill and Johnny Curran.
Neilson said: “Honestly, it’s a great event. For me, it’s like going back in time to the days when we played on the pond with minimal rules and a ton of creativity.
“The game is so fast and exciting. Our group really showed some mettle when we got behind about Austria. They got physically aggressive and we upped the intensity to where they didn’t respond well.
“It was nice to see some of these young guys get different offensive opportunities and produce. We’re not done yet but it was a great day one.”
GB’s first game tomorrow (Saturday 11th April) against Netherlands has been moved half an hour later than its original face-off time and will now start at 18:00 (17:00 BST). GB will then face Austria at 20:00 (19:00 BST).
Taking place from 10th to 12th April – in front of the Olympiaworld Innsbruck – the event marks the international launch of Ultimate Hockey as part of the 50th anniversary celebrations of the Olympic Winter Games in Innsbruck.
Great Britain are in Group B alongside Austria and Netherlands, while Group A consists of Estonia, Germany and Hungary.
Great Britain schedule and results
Friday 10th April: Great Britain 8-5 Netherlands
Friday 10th April: Austria 6-10 Great Britain
Saturday 11th April: Netherlands v Great Britain 18:00 (17:00 BST)
Saturday 11th April: Great Britain v Austria 20:00 (19:00 BST)
Placement games, semi-finals, the Bronze Medal Game and the Gold Medal Game will take place on Sunday 12th April.
All games are played three-on-three with two periods of 12 minutes.