Going in the last game the Women's U18 Division 1A World Championships, Hungary knew with a win against France the bronze medal was still in play and regardless of the outcome they had already avoided relegation.
Despite getting pulled late in the game against Germany Renáta Poltzer was back in the net against France. The first period started well for Hungary as before they hit the five minute mark they already had a 1-0 lead as Kinga Jókai Szilágyi took a pass from Zora Gottlibet and put it into the back of the net. Neither team was able to take advantage of their only power play opportunity.
In the second period at 36:15 of the game France tied it up from a goal by Jade Vix, again neither team scored on the one power play that each team had.
The third period was seemingly filled with penalties but interestingly France scored their win goal even strength when Vix beat Poltzer for the second time in the game. Tibor Marton called time out for Hungary as they pull Poltzer for the extra attacker but it didn't help as France held on for the 2-1 win.
Coaches Corner
“It was a great game, a real world championship level game but unfortunately was came up on the short end against France. In September the girls lost to France three times very easily since then the squad has come together and only missed out on winning by a hair. It was really great working together with the girls and I’m really proud of them because they worked great during the tournament and visibly improved as the tournament went on. We would like to thank all the support we received from the fans who travelled to France.” coach Norbert Búzás
View from the ice
“It was a close game, I'm a little sad that we lost but really proud of the team at the same time. It was one of our best games so far. I don't think we should be ashamed because we lost against a good team. I don't like mentioning this but the referees didn't really help us either, and I'm not saying they are the ones to be blamed for our loss. I think we had a very good time in Vaujany. The team improved a lot since the beginning of the season. Unfortunately we got 5th but that's not a reason for us to be sad.” Vanda Pál