England v Italy was the opening match of the competition.
Manager Ron Barker reported that the aim was to use it to ‘play everyone into the event’ and not to get the best ever result against the Italians but disappointed it wasn’t better.
Carlos Amaral played all the team and was satisfied with their first performance on a difficult skating surface. The opening goal by Alessandro Michielon was responded to in spectacular style with one from Simon Hosking which had the effect of galvanising the opposition to put the pressure on.
A penalty taken by Alessandro Bertolucci was saved by David when the score stood at 6 -1.

For a time in the 2nd half a full attacking side was used which left the team vulnerable and open to some clinical finishing by the Italians who made the most of such opportunities.
Half-time 1-5; Full-time 2 -15

Follow each game as it happens on the official website. Find the link on www.nrha.co.uk

More info:
Reporter: Aileen Barker