Shields: Estonia Are An Improving Nation

Forward Colin Shields says Estonia are an improving nation and must not be taken lightly as Great Britain play their second game in Zagreb this afternoon.

Pete Russell’s side go into game two at the World Championship (Division 1B) in Zagreb following a 4-1 victory over hosts Croatia on the opening day.

Estonia began the six-team tournament with a 7-2 defeat by Lithuania.

“We had a tough game against Estonia last year,” said Shields. “They are an improving nation as well.

“They had a tough game yesterday against Lithuania and they will be looking to bounce back.

“We just need to continue on the things we worked on yesterday and build on getting towards the gold medal.”

The Belfast forward was presented with a special cap in the dressing room yesterday to make the occasion of his 75th cap.

Shields, who scored GB’s fourth goal last night, continued: “It was a proud moment.

“It is something I don’t keep track of but the day before, someone told me I was on 74 caps.

“I have been fortunate to stay more or less injury free. I think I have only missed two tournaments in the last 16 years.

“It was good to share the moment with the guys in the locker room and hopefully I have a lot more games ahead.

“The overall goal is to win promotion and gold medal, but it is nice to acknowledge milestones like that.”

Meanwhile Great Britain forward Ashley Tait has hailed his side’s intensity and bottle in last nights victory over Croatia.

Coventry forward Tait, who won his 106th cap, said: “There were many good things about this performance.

“We played at a good tempo throughout the game, which was very pleasing.

“Croatia came at us hard early on but we managed to quickly get a foothold in the game.

“We fought for every puck and played intense. We also did not back down from any confrontation.

“The guys enjoyed it out there and it was a great game to be a part of.”

Tait, who assisted on GB’s third goal which was scored by Peacock, says GB must not take Estonia lightly later today.

“We need to remain focused and not get ahead of ourselves,” he added.

“A lot can happen in these tournaments, so we must make sure we turn up every night.”

GB against Estonia faces-off at 4:30pm local time this afternoon (3:30pm UK).