| Host Latvia was the underdog entering the final game against Belarus as nothing but three points would be enough to earn the promotion. Bolstered by nearly 10000 fans, the Latvians proved that every underdog has its day as the they sakted to the 3-1 win and the promotion. Latvia had the stronger start and opened the scoring with defenceman Arturs Kulda's power play goal at 27:49. Belarus countered when Yuri Yelinseyenka equalised at 36:00 moments after a Latvian power-play expired. The game was a back-and-forth battle, but the Latvians had the stronger last period with Belarus in penatly trouble. Kaspars Daugavins missed the chance to claim the lead with a penalty shot at 53:59. But, 98 seconds later Latvia found the back of the net when Janis Straupe's scored. An empty netter with 10 seconds left sealed the 3-1 win. Latvia will make its return to the U20 top division for the first time in two seasons, while Belarus will not make the quick turnaround and will return to Division I next year. Directorate Awards: Beat Goaltender: Maxim Malyutin (BLR) Best Defenseman: Arturs Kulda (LAT) |
