Head coach Cheryl Smith says she is feeling very positive about the “big improvement” shown by Great Britain Women at the weekend.

GB were beaten by Coventry Blaze in the EIHA U20s Cup yesterday as they continue their preparations for the World Championship in Spain.

For a second successive season, GB Women will play fixtures against men’s under-20s sides this season to get ready for the IIHF tournament which gets under way in March.

Smith said: “We may have been beaten but I am really pleased with what I saw – it was very positive.

“It was a big improvement from the equivalent fixture from last season.

“These games are all about making sure we are fit and ready for the World Championship, as well as giving the roster vital match action.

“Of course, there are things to work on but the coaching staff were happy with what they saw against the Blaze.”

GB Women will travel to Jaca for the six-team IIHF tournament from 29th March to 4th April 2020.

They will face hosts Spain, along with Mexico, DPR Korea, Chinese Taipei and Latvia in the World Championship Division II Group A, with matches taking place at the Pabellon de Hielo.