Solway Sharks Trio Secure Silver Medal!
Great Britain delivered an impressive performance at the inaugural Ultimate Hockey 3×3 event, held in the stunning outdoor setting in front of the Olympiaworld Innsbruck in Austria. The team showed dominance early on, progressing to the semi-finals after a perfect record in Group B, recording four wins from four games, including two victories over Austria and two against the Netherlands.
In a thrilling semi-final clash, Great Britain edged past Estonia with a dramatic 4-3 victory, decided in the final minute. Goals from Jonathan McBean, Thomas Freel, and Cameron Briere gave GB a strong 3-1 lead early in the second period. Estonia responded quickly with two goals in just 27 seconds to level the game, but Kell Beattie stepped up at the crucial moment, netting the decisive goal with one minute remaining to send GB into the final against Hungary.
Under the lights in the gold medal game, Great Britain started strongly, racing into a 3-1 lead thanks to goals from Logan Neilson, Carter Hamill, and Johnny Curran. Hungary fought back to equalise, before Neilson restored GB’s lead early in the second period with his second goal of the night. However, Hungary took control in the latter stages, scoring six unanswered goals to claim the gold medal, leaving Great Britain with a well-earned silver.
Head Coach Corey Neilson praised his team’s efforts and the experience of the tournament, highlighting the passion, skill, and determination shown by the players. He commended the group for their commitment and described them as one of the most coachable teams he has worked with, expressing optimism for the future of British hockey.
Great Britain Results
Friday 10th April:
Great Britain 8–5 Netherlands
Austria 6–10 Great Britain
Saturday 11th April:
Netherlands 6–8 Great Britain
Great Britain 6–3 Austria
Sunday 12th April:
Semi-final: Great Britain 4–3 Estonia
Final: Great Britain 4–9 Hungary
Despite falling short in the final, Great Britain can take great pride in their performance, bringing home silver and showcasing the strength and potential of the next generation of British hockey talent.