Great Britain forward Robert Dowd says he can feel the anticipation building in the camp as next month’s World Championship in Slovakia draws ever closer.
Dowd helped GB to a 3-1 victory over Hungary on Sunday in Milton Keynes to round off a three-team tournament with Italy.
GB will now play KHL side Torpedo on Dowd’s home ice in Sheffield at the Fly DSA Arena on Sunday (4pm), with the two sides also meeting the day before in Nottingham (7pm).
“As always there is a great spirit in the camp but the anticipation is bigger than ever,” said Dowd.
“We all realise what we are going to do next month is very special indeed and hasn’t been done for a generation.
“To be playing against NHL players and the best players in the world will be fantastic, but we won’t be overawed by it.
“Of course all these teams will get our respect but we are going there to do a job and certainly aren’t going there to make up the numbers.”
GB will play in their first top-flight World Championship since 1994 when they face Germany, Canada, Denmark, USA, Finland, Slovakia and France from 11th to 20th May in Group A in Kosice.
“The two games against Torpedo I am sure will be fast-paced and difficult for us, which is exactly what we need,” added Dowd.
“The KHL is probably only just behind the NHL and so the quality of players really is top class.
“I am looking forward to both games this weekend, especially on home ice in Sheffield.”
Saturday 27th April: Great Britain v Torpedo 7pm – Motorpoint Arena Nottingham
Tickets are available online via the website, at the box office or by calling 0843 373 3000.
Sunday 28th April: Great Britain v Torpedo 4pm – Fly DSA Arena Sheffield
Tickets can be purchased online by clicking here or call the box office on 0114 256 5656.
Photo credit: Dean Woolley.