Canada´s Noble: “It´ll be great” to play in front of Slovak fans

“It was a good game. We came out hard. It wasn’t our greatest first period but we executed well at the end and got it done.”

You scored two goals and they were both needed. Can you describe them?
“My teammates set me up really well on the first goal – we had a good shift so it worked out well. The other one was another great pass and I got a bit lucky – it hit the glass and went in off his back – but we’ll take it.”

You were up 4-1 after two periods. What was the strategy in the third period?
“We were just trying to protect the lead, get the ball out of our zone, block as many shots as we could. We didn’t want any more goals on us. They got one but the important thing is we won.”

Through three games, how would you say the team has played?
“We’re in good shape. We’re getting better every game but we can still play better. The first game wasn’t our best. The next couple of games have been a bit better, but we’ve gotta bring our A-game tonight against the Slovaks.”

Have you had a chance to see the Slovak team yet?
“No, not really, but we’ve got a game plan and if we execute that well, we should be fine.”

There should be a few people here to watch the game. You must be looking forward to that.
“Yeah, it’ll be great. I’m sure it’s gonna be packed tonight. They’re the home team. I love it. Fans are great. We’ve just gotta block out the noise when it gets loud.”

How has this experience in Žilina been for you so far?
“This is my first World Championship and it’s been great. The rinks and the hotel have been good, and the hockey’s been good. It’s hard but we’ll push through it. It’s fun.”