Overtime-winning hero Robert Dowd says Great Britain showed their true grit with a 4-3 victory over Estonia in the World Championship (Division 1B) in Zagreb.
It means GB now have five points from two matches after they began the six-team tournament with a 4-1 victory over Croatia last night.
GB led 3-1 against Estonia at one stage thanks to Craig Peacock’s goal after only 26 seconds and two strikes from Russell Cowley.
Estonia hit back to take the game to overtime before Dowd held his nerve to fire home a powerplay winner with under two minutes remaining in the extra period.
“I think we showed real character and determination to get that win,” said Dowd.
“There was some real grit in there and we did not panic, which was the main thing.
“We will all admit it was not our best game but getting the win is so important in these tournaments.”
GB now have a day off before playing their third game on Wednesday when they take on Lithuania.
“I think the day without a game has come at a good time,” said Dowd.
“There were some tired bodies and we can now regroup and focus on the final three games.”