Australia Shut Out by Hosts Serbia in World Championship Opener

James Lane

Australia’s return to the Ice Hockey World Championship Division II stage began on a sour note, as they were blanked 3–0 by Serbia in their tournament opener at the Pionir Ice Hall in Belgrade.

Despite a relatively-even match, the hosts dominated the scoreboard, buoyed by a vocal home crowd.

Serbia opened the scoring midway through the first period when defenceman Aleksa Gvozdenović struck on the power play 13 minutes in.

The second period saw more of the same, with Serbia continuing to outshoot Australia. Their pressure paid off early, with Lazar Lestarić doubling the lead just four minutes in, capitalising on a defensive turnover in the slot.

Australia couldn’t find a way past Serbia’s goaltender, who held firm under determined pressure. Gvozdenović sealed the result with his second of the night at 18' in the final period, capping off a strong individual performance and putting the result beyond doubt.

Australia will look to regroup quickly ahead of their next fixture - against Belgium - as they aim to keep their hopes alive in a tough Division II group.