Heartbreak for GB in Mixed Doubles
Bruce Mouat and Jen Dodds faced heartbreak at the Winter Olympics, losing 5-3 to hosts Italy in the mixed doubles curling bronze medal match. Despite topping the round-robin with only one loss, the British pair could not maintain their momentum in the playoffs.
After a semi-final defeat by Sweden, GB’s hopes of a medal were dashed at Cortina Curling Stadium. The Italian duo of Stefania Constantini and Amos Mosaner dominated key moments, leaving Mouat and Dodds in fourth place once again.
Fine Margins Decide the Match
The game was decided by tiny margins. GB started with the hammer, giving them a theoretical advantage, and had a chance to score three points in the first end. Dodds’ shot fell just short, allowing Italy to steal one.
The British duo briefly equalized, but Italy edged ahead in the third end and widened their lead. Even a big mistake by Mosaner in the sixth did not swing momentum in GB’s favor. Despite using their powerplay, Mouat and Dodds could only score one point and failed to force an extra end.
Emotional Reflections from the Team
Dodds admitted the pain was similar to four years ago in Beijing. “So close, but so far,” she said. Mouat echoed her feelings, praising their teamwork and long friendship.
In Beijing, both bounced back, helping GB win women’s gold and men’s silver. Now, they must refocus for the upcoming men’s and women’s team events, facing China in their respective competitions.
Analysis: Where Did GB Go Wrong?
Despite cruising through the round-robin stage, the semi-final loss to Sweden may have left lingering effects. New pundit Logan Gray suggested the short turnaround for the bronze game added pressure, causing minor mistakes and overcomplicated decisions.
Four-time Olympian Jackie Lockhart believes past disappointment might help the duo now. “They’ve been here before and know how to refocus,” she said, emphasizing the need to park the loss and concentrate on the next challenge.
Looking Ahead
Mouat’s men’s team, gold medal favorites, play China on Wednesday, while Dodds’ women’s team faces China on Thursday. Both will aim to turn disappointment into Olympic success in the upcoming team events.
