In what spectators called “a game for the ages,” the joint force of Estonians and Latvians overcame some initial jitters to come out on top with a thrilling 4-2 come-from-behind victory.
While the eventual winners spotted Lithuania an early 2-0 lead, it could have been far worse had it not been for the extraordinary goaltending of Tõnis Tõllasepp, who was rock solid in the Estonian/Latvian net the entire game.
The winning defence was led by a corps of players the Toronto Maple Leafs would be proud of. It included, among others, Toomas Eichenbaum, Mark Haljaste, and Mike LaFlamme (Kairi Taul's husband). All played significant roles in limiting Lithuania to two goals, and in generating offence too.
Up front, after overcoming some initial confusion, the Estonian/Latvian line combinations finally jelled into a cohesive offensive unit—almost. The result was four unanswered goals, including the winner late in the third period and the fourth into an empty net.
Robi shone not only on the ice, but also as the team’s fearless off-ice leader as he pulled together the players who made up the winning side.
Team captain Robi Trei proved his effectiveness time and time again while playing in his third of four games in less than twenty-four hours. Robi shone not only on the ice, but also as the team’s fearless off-ice leader as he pulled together the players who made up the winning side.
Greg Dibiase (husband of Marielle Voksepp) showed what a young pair of legs can contribute as he swarmed the Lithuanian zone all game. Tim Sellers (husband of Hedy Vesk and son-in-law of Laine Vesk) also played. Had Mikk Toome and Jaan Hess been able to suit up, the margin of victory would have been even greater, of that there is little doubt.
So there you have it. A thrilling victory to be sure. For complete rosters and scoring statistics, keep your eye on the balticcup.blogspot.com website.
