The Swiss had begun the day as they meant to go on, requiring an extra end before a thrilling 6-5 win over Norway, while the Canadians had earlier beaten the same opponents, 9-3.

That put the two teams in joint top position going into the all-important clash, with Swiss skip Alina Paetz playing a delicate tap-up to score two points in the first end.

Switzerland's lead soon became 4-2 and, although the Olympic champions fought back, they could never quite close the gap, with skip Jennifer Jones requiring two points in the final end to draw level. 

In nail-biting circumstances she scored one but, after an umpire's measure, it was decided Switzerland were in second shot position, giving them a 7-6 victory. 

The Swiss now have eight wins so far, moving them into first position in the standings on their own, while Canada drop down into second.

Canada came unstuck against the Swiss after a strong start to the day
©World Curling Federation/Richard Gray



"I felt really comfortable out there," said Paetz afterwards.