World Champs:Russland vs Belarus -by moah

Ok.Soviet derby here as starlike Russians take on tough Belarus.

This might turn into a physical and closely contested match as Belarus are experts in playing against teams with Russian hockey school and generally play well against all favorites.They will be lead by Mikhail Grabovski, player with sublime skating ability and top determination.He is Toronto Maple Leafs based player and is the definite example of a national team player – leaves everything on the ice.So was the case against Slovakia (where Belarus lost with 2-4) as he kept applying pressure on the defensive lines every shift.He did not get any points in this match but was very active and dangerous, creative plenty of mess in front of the goal where rebounds are to be knocked in.Mikhail will surely be spending some 20 minutes of ice time against the Russians, where he will drive the puck deep in the offensive third, looking to tie couple of Russian players just make a pass to opened player.Well, this does sound easy on the paper but will be difficult against the Russian squad.However, Zbornaja displayed gaps in their back line,especially in the first match against the Slovaks.They seem to be sensitive to speedy players which can accelerate on little space.And this is just what Grabovski has to offer.Given that Russians are not the most disciplined team and will surely be in the penalty box, Grabovski will be there for the Belarus powerplay, spinning and turning puck across the attacking third.Here we could witness some and also main opportunities for Belarus and their most talented player.

Russia should pass this test as they are packed with attacking force.However in this match which is always emotional, might find Belarus a tough opponent which will certainly get on the scoresheet.And Mikhail Grabovski could well be the part of that.Russian to prevail with 5-2.

Pick : Mikhail Grabovski to collect point