Devils’ D-Man Mark Awarded 75th Great Britain Cap

There were two special presentations ahead of Great Britain’s game against Poland at the World Championship Division One tournament in Budapest today.

Cardiff Devils defenceman Mark Richardson received a special 75th cap, while Sheffield Steelers blueliner Ben O’Connor was awarded his 50th cap.

Richardson is only the ninth player in history to reach 75 caps and O’Connor becomes the 24th to reach 50 caps.

A short ceremony took place in the dressing room before the game, with some words from GB general manager Andy Buxton and IHUK general secretary Andy French was on hand to present the caps.

Richardson said: “Pulling on the GB jersey is always very special, so to reach a milestone such as this is a massive honour.

“I have so much pride playing for my country and it was lovely to be recognised in this way.”

O’Connor said: “Everyone gets excited to play for your country and I am no different.

“It is a massive honour to wear the shirt and I am so proud to have reached 50 caps.”

GB forward Luke Ferrara says he will never forget his first Great Britain goal as he found the net in only his second World Championship appearance.

The 24-year-old gave GB an early lead against Kazakhstan before the tournament’s second seeds came back to secure a 6-1 victory.

“It was a special moment and I won’t forget it,” said the Coventry Blaze player.

“We started the game really well and for the first 10 minutes we dominated the game.

“I wish the goal could have been part of a winning scoreline, but we can still take positives from how we played.”

Britain have one win and one defeat from their opening two games and play Poland in their third match this afternoon (4pm European time, 3pm UK time).