The recent GBU20 trip to compete in the IIHF U20 World Championship Division II Group A in Brasov saw three bronze medals return to Dumfries with the Solway Sharks contingent after GB secured third place with 2 wins from their 5 matches in the tournament in Romania.

Sharks Head Coach Martin Grubb led the GB team as Head Coach, and was accompanied to the Championships by Sharks’ Equipment Manager Peam Stenton and Defenceman Liam Stenton, who was named as Captain of Great Britain Under-20 team for the World Championship.

After convincing victories over Spain (7-2) and Lithuania (5-3), GB were beaten 5-4 by Korea after penalty shots.  A surprise 4-3 defeat by hosts Romania – who were relegated on the final day – was followed by a narrow defeat at the hands of promoted Italy in GB’s final game.

Grubb said, “The players will grow from their experiences at these Championships.  We only had two guys on our team who had experienced winning a medal and four who had played at a World Championship before.  Add in the pandemic and even the uncertainty about travelling to Romania, we at least were able to win a medal.  Although we are disappointed at the colour, the players will learn and grow from this experience.  Thank you on behalf of us all for all the support from back home, it was much appreciated.”

19-year-old Liam was presented with the GB Supporters Club Player of the Tournament award by team manager Ian Turner when the team returned to the UK.

Solway Sharks are back into league action this weekend when they travel to face Whitley Warriors on Sunday evening.  Face off in Whitley Bay is at 5pm.

Below Photos: Liam collecting the Bronze Medal Trophy. Photo Credit: Razvan Pasarica.

Liam receiving his Player of the Tournament award from Team Manager Ian Turner.

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