Craig Peacock says Great Britain have to start games better as they continue their preparations for the upcoming World Championship (Division 1B) tournament.

GB struggled to get out of the blocks against Poland in last Friday’s warm-up game and Peacock admits the team will need to be focused from the first whistle next week.

“The first game on Friday was a slow start in the first period and it showed we have to be switched on from the moment the puck drops in Belfast,” said Peacock.

“We played some good stuff in the second and the third period. It was a different game in Coventry on Saturday and we managed to get a good result.

“The quick turnaround meant there might have been some fatigue and something guys aren’t used to, but that happens in these tournaments.

“We have to be switched on and if we start the way we started against Poland on Friday, it could end it for you. It showed we need to be ready and gives us the chance to work on things.

“I’d like to think this is the year for GB. We’ve been unlucky the last two seasons, going into the last game needing a draw, but unfortunately we fell short and that was tough to take.

“We certainly don’t want that feeling again and to do it on home ice would be pretty special.”

Great Britain begin their World Championship Division 1B campaign when they face Croatia on Sunday (4.00pm)

(Image permission: Karl Denham)