Finland (5)* v (5) Norway

* Won after penalty shootout

FINLAND held its nerve to down Scandanavian rivals Norway in a penalty shootout following a stunning 5-5 draw in regulation.

Finland almost got the perfect start, with Carl Enkenberg putting the ball in the back of the net just seconds into the match, however, the goal was disallowed as the striker’s foot had crept into the goalkeeper's arc. Norway also created some early chances but excellent Finnish keeping prevented it getting on the scoreboard.

After a frenetic passage of end-to-end action, Finland broke the deadlock with a cracking strike from Toni Nastolin. Quick goals to Finnish stars Karl-Bengt Henriksson and Karl Kenttamaa handed their side a commanding 3-0 lead. But a spectacular volley goal by Norway's Einar Woldseth gave his team a much-needed morale boost as half-time approached. Norway pushed again but excellent defending by the Finns ensured they kept their 3-1 lead as they went into the break.

Finland kicked off the second half with an excellent team goal, with Nastoli converting in style, opening up a handy 4-1 lead. A captain’s goal from Tond Laland gave the Norwegians a sniff with five minutes remaining and when they found the back of the net 90 seconds later the game was well and truly alive.

A goal to Jani Luhtanen gave Finland some breathing space but Norway replied quickly through Ivan Tobiassen giving it every chance at 4-5. Another goal to inspirational Norwegian captain Laland tied the game and set up a frantic final minute of play.

Neither team could score before the whistle blow, and it seemed appropriate that a penalty shootout would have to separate the teams.
Enkenberg rose to the occasion and slotted the first shot for Finland and a courageous save from the Finnish goalkeeper sealed a memorable victory.

Photos: Photoworx