Aussies rain on Finns' parade

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Michael E. Iacovella

It took only one point for Finland to realize how much the Australians’ height would play a role in last night’s opening game in Paavo Nurmi stadium, as Anthony Dowle sky’d his defender to rip down the first of his two scores off a long huck by #42 Tom Rogacki (8 assists, 2 goals). Finland quickly answered back with speed and precision throws, scoring three of the next four points on quick, long strikes.

The Aussies threw a mix of zone and clam, but switched back to man after the Finns patiently marched the disc to a two-point lead at 7-5. Unforced throwing errors by Finland gave Australia more than enough looks to even the score. Tied at 8-all, the Dingos came out fired up on defense, and took half following a huge block in Finland’s red zone by #14 Jonathan Holmes.

Australia again came out hot ‘D’ to open the second half, but the Finns countered with cool –headed offense from #68 Topi “caribou” Haarama (4 goals). Finnish defensive machine #49 Peetu Öunap forced a Dingo turn which evened the score again at 11-all. More unforced throwing errors allowed Australia four straight defensive goals, and placed them in a commanding position at 16-12, game to 17. Finland capitalized on Aussie throwing errors with three straight points of their own, but Australia finally prevailed, 17-15.

 

Sami Holopainen of Finland defending against Tom Rogacki of Australia
in Saturday's feature match (Photo by Paul Hurt)