GB beaten by Denmark in Winter Olympics qualifier

Great Britain have two more qualifying matches remaining - against Norway and Japan

Great Britain's men's ice hockey team got off to a losing start in their bid to qualify for a first Winter Olympics since 1948 as they were beaten 3-1 by hosts Denmark.

Markus Holton gave the Danes an early lead but Liam Kirk soon made it 1-1 with a top-shelf finish.

Ben Bowns then made a string of excellent saves in the Great Britain goal to keep out Denmark for long periods.

But the hosts regained the lead in the third period through Nikolaj Ehlers' powerplay goal, before Lars Eller added their third.

Great Britain also face Norway and Japan in the final qualifying event in Aalborg, with the overall winner sealing a place at the 2026 Winter Games in Milan.

The British team are currently ranked 17th in the world, while Denmark are 11th, Norway 12th and Japan in 24th spot.

Great Britain have won two Winter Olympic medals in ice hockey - bronze in 1924 and gold in 1936.

In Thursday's other game, Norway claimed a 4-2 victory over Japan.