Having battled to an overtime victory over Sweden yesterday, the holders enjoyed a more comfortable display against Russia.

Goals from Taylor Heise, Britta Curl, Margaret Nicholson and Hannah Bilka in a dominant opening period put the Americans 4-0 up.

Ilona Markova pulled one back for Russia in the second period, before Curl restored the four-goal margin for the US.

Russia pulled back two goals in the final period, but they proved only consolation strikes as the US triumphed 5-3.

Canada bounced back from their opening day loss against Russia to inflict a 4-0 defeat on Sweden.

Following tomorrow's rest day, Canada will meet the US as both teams seek to earn places in the semi-finals, with Russia set to meet Sweden.

The top two teams at the end of the group stage will advance to the semi-finals, with the bottom two forced to play a quarter-final match.

They will be joined in the last eight by the top two finishers in Group B.

Finland currently lead Group B on two wins, following a narrow 3-2 success against winless Switzerland today.

Germany bounced back from their opening day defeat against the Czech Republic, following an overtime period.

A goal from Luise Welcke saw them emerge as 2-1 winners.