---

Norway - Canada, men. Russia - Switzerland, women.

photo by Anna Sidorová

rn

Today's morning round belonged to the men. We usually arrive at the arena between quarter and half past eight local time. After a Valentine's Day breakfast that included a serving of Russian pop ballads and one marschmellows heart, we took the local TM3 bus to IBC. The routine security check this time included a decent groping of the lower extremities. The men's round had a blockbuster on the agenda in the form of a Norway-Canada duel. The cornerstone of the match ended up being the Norwegians' bid for the Canadian four. After an error by Thomas Ulsrud, Brad Jacobs capitalized on the bid, and when the Canadians finally made a three there was nothing more to think about. Canada is back (4 to 2) and Norway (3 to 2) will have to add more. Just pants won't bring the Northerners a win. Russia, Switzerland. Both teams need a win to get closer to the semifinals. I'd favour the Swiss, but the Russians have been playing a bit better all game and Sidorova in particular, who I misread several times in the commentary, is putting in important stones. In the ninth end, instead of a crappy one, she risks the opponent's one and maybe even two, and with a successful runback she finally spells her own two. This leads the Russians to the final win. A nice match and chances continue to be even for both teams.