Tight at the top in Women's Curling World Championships

Bronze medallists at last year's tournament, Russia needed an extra end to topple winless Finland 9-8 in a nervy contest.

After opening up an early 5-2 lead, Alina Kovaleva's rink looked to be in firm control of proceedings, but Finland fought back, eventually levelling the scores at 8-8, but Kovaleva scored from an open hit to snatch victory.

Their rivals at the top of the standings, China, were themselves made to work for their sixth win from seven matches, as they came from behind to beat Germany 8-6 after ten ends.

Elsewhere, the USA won North American bragging rights as they downed Canada 13-6 in emphatic style.

It was a triumph that featured a dramatic five-point shot from skip Jamie Sinclair, a moment that second Taylor Anderson believes was a turning point after the US had trailed to their rivals in the early stages of the contest.

"I was definitely pumped after that shot," she said.

"I yelled over to Jamie (skip) and it was really exciting to get the momentum switched over to us. We really needed it and it brought us right back into the game. It was a really great opportunity to make that shot."

In the final game of the session, Switzerland beat Latvia 8-5 to close out the championship's fifth day in the Danish town of Silkeborg.

Sportsbeat 2019