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While it was a common theme from the Swedish players after their victory in the 7th placed playoff that they were disappointed to be playing there, Swedish left winger Anton Karlsson was in a positive mood after a four point game against Slovakia.
Anton Karlsson, who is no relation to fellow Swedish forward Filip Karlsson had struggled for offence in the round robin stage, picking up a solitary assist through three games. However, the big bodied forward exploded offensively against Slovakia. He added three assists before scoring the ninth goal for the Swedes, beating Maximillian Pajpach with a wicked wrist which went into the top corner. The Swedish captain, who plies his trade for Frölunda’s junior system spoke at length following his side’s 11-0 victory
Obviously the 7th/8th playoff was not a game Sweden wanted to be playing in. However, can you take some positives from the tournament?
Yes of course we can. In the first game the whole team came out and didn’t play so well. We had a great game against Canada and there was a great atmosphere in the team. But we lost to the Czech Republic and of course we have things to work on, but next tournament but I think we will bounce back.
Did you want to make a statement with your performance against Slovakia?
We went into the game with a positive feeling, and we are happy with the result. If we win this game in this way we have a good chance for other teams to look at this game and go, “Oh, it’s 11-0”, so it’s a good thing for Sweden.
Was that why it was extra important to get the shutout?
Of course. It was a very great feeling to win this game and we can have a happy evening later.
A goal and three assists for you against Slovakia, how happy are you with that?
I thought I had a good game, but my points are not so important because I like my team and it’s the most important thing for me. Yeah I scored four points, and of course it’s fun to score points, but it’s not important for me.
Looking ahead from the Ivan Hlinka Memorial Cup, what are the things you are looking to work on next season?
Next season I think I will work on my physical condition and also my skating. I don’t think I need to do much on my shot, just my skating and physical frame.
And what are your future plans looking ahead towards the draft?
I really don’t know. I have one year left with Frölunda on my contract and then I will see if I move or stay in Sweden. It’s two different things so we will have to see when the draft comes round.
