Schöpp leads German charge

Her storied history as the most successful female German curler is assured. Schöpp has won a world title and a remarkable six Le Gruyère European Championships in her career, but after decades of criticism over a win-at-all costs attitude, she is ready for a change.

"You want to know what my goals are?" Schöpp asked. "I just want to have fun. I just love the sport."

She and her team spanked Sweden 8-4 at this year's Euro shootout to move to 2-1 and a six-way tie for second behind unbeaten Russia.

Schöpp returned to competition after a four-year absence in 2005, and promptly qualified for the Ford World Championship, where she finished fourth. She has longtime third Monika Wagner on board, but a new young front end of Anna Hartelt and Marie-Therese Rotter. In fact, the youngsters are only in their third season of curling.

"It was a breath of fresh air," said Schöpp. "They came in (to the curling club) just a little interested after school, and now they compete for Germany."

In other women's matches, Scotland defeated the Netherlands 6-2, Denmark clubbed Norway 9-2, Russia beat the Czech Republic 9-5 and Italy upset host Switzerland 7-4. The Swiss are now 0-3 and will face Schöpp in night action.

On the men's side, Finland clobbered Denmark 8-2 in six ends, Switzerland beat Ireland 8-5, France outlasted Wales 9-7, Scotland upended Sweden 6-4 and Norway emerged victorious over Germany 4-3 in an extra-end.

Scotland and Switzerland are both tied for first place at 3-0, with Norway and Sweden both a game behind at 2-1.